Scientists have created a new tool designed to help find the best photovoltaic (PV) materials that can boost crop growth while producing solar energy.
Researchers from Swansea University have introduced an innovative tool to identify the most effective photovoltaic (PV) materials that enhance crop growth while generating solar energy.
A recent study published in Solar RRL examined how semi-transparent PV materials affect crops, which represents a key application of agrivoltaics (combining solar panels with agricultural practices).
The research team has engineered a groundbreaking free tool that can predict how much light different PV materials transmit, absorb, and generate energy. This assessment can be done virtually anywhere in the world using geographical, physical, and electrical data.
Austin Kay, the lead author and a PhD student at Swansea University, stated: “This technology enables us to evaluate various types of PV materials, aiding in the balance between food production and renewable energy generation.”
Choosing the right PV material is crucial for optimizing agrivoltaics. It involves understanding how materials absorb different wavelengths (colors) of light and their bandgap. A broader bandgap allows the material to absorb higher-energy, shorter-wavelength (blue) light, while a narrower bandgap is more suited for lower-energy, longer-wavelength (red) light.
By selecting PV materials with specific bandgaps and absorption characteristics, researchers can adjust the ‘color’ of light that passes through semi-transparent PVs to reach the crops. These crops primarily absorb red and blue light for photosynthesis while reflecting green light.
Associate Professor Ardalan Armin, the project leader, remarked: “By optimizing the integration of solar panels and agriculture, agrivoltaics can greatly aid in decarbonizing the agricultural industry. This method not only produces clean energy but also improves food security.”
PV panels can be integrated into farming in various ways, allowing for locally sourced energy with minimal impact on agricultural outputs. For example, they can be installed on greenhouse roofs or polytunnels and can also serve as shelters for livestock. In return, livestock can help with maintenance by eating the vegetation around the panels. However, it’s essential to consider the type of livestock since certain species, such as goats, can climb onto the PVs and cause significant damage.
