Agrivoltaic Solar Research Systems

2026-11-03

This RFP seeks a contractor who can : • Design and install solar PV systems tailored to agricultural and research needs ; • Collaborate with UMD researchers to ensure compatibility with crop trials and field operations ; and • Deliver systems that meet energy generation goals while supporting long - term agricultural use . The selected contractor will work closely with UMD researchers to install solar PV systems that : • Generate clean energy while maintaining agricultural productivity ; • Support field - based research on crop performance , soil health , and energy efficiency ; • Demonstrate agrivoltaic configurations suitable for Maryland ’ s climate , soils , and farming practices ; and • Serve as educational and outreach platforms for farmers , students , and stakeholders . This section outlines the design expectations for UMD ’ s agrivoltaic research installations and is intended to guide bidders in understanding the spatial constraints , operational context , and research integration needs of each site . The selected contractor will work closely with UMD collaborators to design and install solar PV systems that are compatible with agricultural operations and research protocols . Flexibility to adapt to evolving research needs is essential . UMD will finalize and provide exact crop row orientation , spacing , and in ‑ field agronomic layout after contract award . Final design drawings will be coordinated with the selected Contractor to integrate row alignment with the solar structural layout while preserving research - driven light , shading , and equipment - access requirements . System Type & Capacity : UMD seeks to install solar PV systems at two agricultural research sites ( Wye REC and Western Maryland REC ) with a combined capacity of approximately 150 kW , subject to final design and budget . While an even split of 75 kW per site may be proposed , these figures are flexible . Bidders are encouraged to propose system capacities within this range that support agricultural operations and research objectives .

Maryland

2026-05-02