Torres trials solar pergola

Familia Torres has unveiled a striking agrivoltaic pergola over 1,000m² at Mas Rabell in Sant Martí Sarroca, raising solar panels five metres above vines to test how clean energy, shade and altered microclimate can boost vineyard resilience and fruit quality.

Part of the EU-backed Solarwine programme, the pilot compares opaque and semi-transparent bifacial panels, with power destined for the Torres Brandy ageing cellars and the nearby Mas Rabell restaurant.

The lofty clearance lets harvesters pass beneath, while data collection will track productivity, energy yield and the timing of ripening as summers heat up.

Leading the innovation, Mireia Torres says the goal is to delay ripening and protect grapes from extreme sun, marrying agriculture with renewable power for a more sustainable, profitable future. A companion trial runs in Castilla-La Mancha; together the projects have a budget of over €700,000, including nearly €600,000 of public funding. Results will inform a wider roll-out across Spain.