SUNfarming

SUNfarming GmbH operates as a comprehensive service provider in the photovoltaic (PV) sector, specializing in the development, realization, and management of solar projects. Founded in 2004 by Peter Schrum and Martin Tauschke, the company emerged as the solar division of the renewable energy firm ALENSYS AG. Schrum, a trained farmer, leveraged his agricultural background to pioneer the company's unique focus, combining his expertise in farming with renewable energy. This dual perspective is central to the company's business model, which has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially focused on trading PV components and implementing standard solar installations, SUNfarming has successfully realized projects totaling approximately 700 megawatts (MW) across Europe.

The company's core business revolves around Agri-Photovoltaics (Agri-PV), a dual-land-use approach that integrates solar energy production with agriculture. This model allows for the cultivation of crops or animal husbandry on the same land where solar panels are installed. SUNfarming has developed specialized systems, such as elevated structures with bifacial glass-glass modules, to optimize both agricultural activity and energy yield. Revenue is generated through the entire project lifecycle, including development, engineering, financing, construction, and the ongoing operation and maintenance of solar plants. The company also earns revenue from selling the generated electricity and by issuing corporate bonds to finance new projects.

A key differentiator for SUNfarming is its award-winning "Food & Energy" concept, which extends beyond energy generation to address food security and local economic development. The company establishes research and training centers, particularly in developing countries, that serve as educational hubs for sustainable agriculture and PV technology. These centers create local jobs and produce food for local markets, with all agricultural income benefiting the local community. In Germany, the company has adapted this concept into "Öko-Solar" and "Agri-Solar" models, which promote biodiversity alongside energy production. Recently, SUNfarming became part of Cube Green Energy, a platform of infrastructure investor I Squared Capital, to accelerate its growth in the Agri-PV market with significant investment planned for its extensive project pipeline.

Keywords: Agri-Photovoltaics, solar project development, dual-land-use, renewable energy, Food & Energy concept, Agri-PV systems, solar EPC, photovoltaic investment, community solar, sustainable agriculture, solar farm operation, renewable energy financing, bifacial solar modules, solar training centers, agricultural energy solutions, Peter Schrum, Martin Tauschke, Cube Green Energy, solar asset management, Öko-Solar