Crop Yield Responses to Reduced Solar Radiation in Agrivoltaic Systems: Crop-Specific Patterns and Shading Thresholds

Crop yield responses to reduced solar radiation are central to the design of agrivoltaic systems, yet crop-specific patterns and critical shading thresholds remain insufficiently characterized across diverse environments. This study evaluates yield responses across a global dataset of 546 observations from 66 studies, including agrivoltaic, shading, and agroforestry systems. Relative yield was analyzed in relation to reduction in solar radiation (RSR), crop type, and environmental variables using exploratory analysis, multiple linear regression, and tree-based ensemble models. Crop responses varied systematically across crop types. Fruits, berries, and fruity vegetables maintained or increased yield under lower shading levels, while forages, leafy vegetables, cereals, and tubers showed gradual declines, and maize and grain legumes exhibited the strongest sensitivity. Across models, yield responses were non-linear, with relatively stable yields at lower shading levels followed by accelerated declines beyond approximately 50–60% RSR. Climatic conditions further influenced these patterns, with crops in higher-radiation and warmer environments maintaining yields more effectively under partial shade. These findings demonstrate that crop yield responses depend on crop type, shading intensity, and environmental context, providing an agronomic basis for crop selection and agrivoltaic system design.