Sociological Perspectives on Disruptive Innovation: The Role of Co-Design in Agriphotovoltaics Adoption Among Farmers

Abstract

Technological advancements in eco-friendly domains have increased social awareness, making community participation essential. Disruptive innovations, as noted by Bower and Christensen, can transform sectors, but their success depends on public understanding and acceptance. Overcoming skepticism requires engaging communities early in awareness and adoption. Ramirez emphasized social networks in agricultural technology uptake, while Rose and Chilvers called for inclusive, responsible innovation in smart farming. With rising energy and climate challenges, broad societal engagement—especially for solutions like agriphotovoltaics—is urgent. The Horizon Europe REGACE Project tackles this need by creating participatory models that involve farmers directly in the development of agri-photovoltaic technologies. Through interviews, open space methods, and world cafés, it ensures co-design and co-development with future users. This participatory process transforms innovation into a shared, reflective practice, enhancing environmental sustainability awareness as noted by Antonucci and alii. Spanaki et al. confirm that such approaches strengthen understanding and equitable value distribution in agriculture. In a global context shaped by political contention over farming policies, this chapter presents early outcomes from farmer participation in five partner countries of REGACE. It examines the opportunities and risks of socio-technological collaboration in agriphotovoltaics, emphasizing the transformative impact of early-stage co-design. Initial findings highlight how bottom-up participation is vital for the successful, just, and sustainable adoption of agricultural innovations.