#United States #Puerto Rico #MT Solar #Hacienda Berdiel #Adjuntas

A New Dawn for Hacienda Berdiel Torres

In the scenic mountains of Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, a revolutionary energy project is revitalizing a family coffee farm that has faced numerous challenges linked to high energy costs and the destructive aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The solutions developed at Hacienda Berdiel Torres will not only set a benchmark for energy independence in hurricane-prone regions but also foster local agricultural resilience.

The Challenges Faced

Miguel Berdiel, the owner of the farm, once believed his enterprise would flourish in a region known for perfect coffee-growing conditions and a hydroponic greenhouse. Yet, the reality was starkly different. The aftermath of Hurricane Maria severely impacted infrastructure, and soaring energy prices significantly stifled the operations. The greenhouse, a vital aspect of the farm that could provide both jobs and fresh produce to the community, was forced to shut down due to unsustainable operating costs.

A Collaborative Effort Towards Sustainability

The turning point came when Hacienda Berdiel was selected as a site for an innovative agrivoltaics project under the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) InSPIRE initiative. This initiative promotes the integration of solar energy in agricultural settings, thereby enhancing energy resilience while maintaining land usability. To bring this vision to life, the Oregon-based non-profit Twende Solar teamed up with MT Solar, renowned for its durable solar mounting solutions.

MT Solar's engineers understood the challenges presented by the environment and design requirements associated with harsh weather conditions. They crafted a system capable of withstanding hurricane-force winds while ensuring functionality for agricultural operations. Jamie Blum, a design and sales engineer at MT Solar, described the intricate design process necessary for this project: “With such high wind loads, we had to tackle some challenges to create a design that allows for high ground clearance above coffee trees.”

Installation Triumph

In July 2025, after multiple months of planning and coordination, the agrivoltaics system was officially installed. The setup includes six solar mounts, each holding four 410W panels, positioned 15 feet above the ground. This strategically elevated structure harmonizes solar energy production with ongoing agricultural activities. Additionally, EG4 Electronics generously contributed the energy storage components for a robust 40kWh system, ensuring that the farm can utilize solar energy efficiently.

Looking Ahead: A Green Future

With the new solar framework in place, Hacienda Berdiel is not just surviving; it is thriving. Plans to reopen the hydroponic greenhouse are now back on track, allowing for sustainable job creation and a source of local produce. The agrivoltaics system will not only power the farm but serves as a model for how agricultural practices can withstand the increasing threats posed by climate change.

In the coming years, ongoing monitoring of the system’s performance will provide invaluable data on energy outputs and crop productivity, further refining standards for similar projects in hurricane-affected regions. As communities look to rebuild and enhance their resilience against natural disasters, initiatives like the one at Hacienda Berdiel stand as a beacon of hope and innovation.

MT Solar, with its commitment to advancing energy independence through innovative solutions, continues to play a pivotal role in reshaping agricultural landscapes, reinforcing the importance of combining energy solutions with food production. This project exemplifies the potential of renewable energy to effect meaningful change in local communities across the globe.