Research at Murdoch University in Australia shows that transparent solar cells not only generate energy, but also contribute to more efficient water usage and healthy plant growth in greenhouses. The technology can could reduce the energy consumption of greenhouses by 50% and offers a sustainable solution for greenhouse horticulture.
During a nearly year-long study, four greenhouses were equipped with semi-transparent solar cells to replace the traditional glass roofs and walls. As a result, the intensity of solar radiation inside the greenhouse was reduced by approximately 30%. The special glazing almost completely filtered out harmful UV radiation, while preserving the necessary light transmission for photosynthesis. The research results showed that crops such as peppers, tomatoes and lettuce grew just as well under these conditions as in standard greenhouses, and chili peppers even performed a little better. Other crops, such as wheat and sunflowers, grew slightly slower. Importantly, the nutritional value and flavor of the crops were preserved.
In addition to the impact on plant growth, it was found that greenhouses with solar cells could generate up to 50% of their own energy consumption, with an average energy efficiency of 10%. Water consumption decreased by almost 30% due to less evaporation and a more stable greenhouse climate. A cost-benefit analysis suggests that the initial investment in transparent solar cells can be recouped within five years, depending on factors such as sunlight, subsidies and energy prices. Although the technology has mainly been tested in sunny regions such as Australia, simulations show that this approach can also be profitable in temperate climates, provided that greenhouses are optimally designed for light penetration and energy storage. This research highlights the potential of transparent solar cells as a sustainable innovation for the future of greenhouse horticulture.
This article fits within two of the themes of NPM Capital: ‘Healthy Life and Learning’ and ‘Everything is Digital’.
Source: Sciencedirect.com