Solar and Farming Can Work Together

Solar and Farming Can Work Together
by Sophie Jenkins
London, UK (SPX) Sep 17, 2024

Researchers at Swansea University have developed a new tool to help find the best photovoltaic (PV) materials to support both solar energy generation and crop growth.

In a new study published in 'Solar RRL', scientists from the Department of Physics explored how semi-transparent PV materials, used in agrivoltaics (combining solar panels with farming), impact crops. Their research is aimed at optimizing the balance between food production and solar power generation.

The team introduced a freeware tool that predicts the performance of various PV materials in terms of light transmission, absorption, and energy generation. This tool, capable of analyzing materials for different locations worldwide, relies on geographical, physical, and electrical data.

Austin Kay, the study's lead author and a PhD candidate at Swansea University, said: "This technology, which allows us to compare many types of PV material, could help us determine how we balance food production and renewable energy generation."

One critical factor in agrivoltaics is choosing the right PV material, which depends on how the material absorbs different light wavelengths and its bandgap. A material's bandgap influences its ability to absorb either higher-energy, short-wavelength light (blue) or lower-energy, long-wavelength light (red).

By selecting PV materials based on these properties, researchers can adjust the light that passes through semi-transparent PV panels to benefit crops. Crops primarily absorb red and blue light for photosynthesis, while they reflect green light.

Associate Professor Ardalan Armin, the project leader, added: "By optimising the combination of solar panels and agriculture, agrivoltaics has the potential to significantly contribute to the decarbonisation of the agricultural sector. This approach not only generates clean energy but also enhances food security."

Solar panels can be implemented in agriculture in several ways, such as on the roofs of greenhouses or polytunnels, and can even offer shelter for livestock. Livestock, in turn, can help maintain vegetation around the panels. However, the choice of livestock is important since certain animals, like goats, can damage the panels by jumping on them.

Research Report:On the Performance Limits of Agrivoltaics-From Thermodynamic to Geo-Meteorological Considerations