Scientists at Swansea University have developed a groundbreaking tool to identify optimal photovoltaic (PV) materials for use in agrivoltaics, an innovative approach that combines solar panels with agricultural settings to enhance both energy production and crop growth. This new tool, detailed in a recent study published in *Solar RRL*, predicts the light transmission, absorption, and power generation of various PV materials by using a combination of geographical, physical, and electrical measurements. It is designed to help determine the best PV materials for maximizing solar power generation while promoting crop growth. Austin Kay, the lead author of the study and a PhD candidate at Swansea University, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “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.” By utilizing this tool, researchers can better understand how different PV materials affect light absorption and transmission, which is crucial for optimizing agrivoltaic systems.
A key factor in selecting the right PV material for agrivoltaics is understanding how the material absorbs different wavelengths of light and its bandgap properties. The bandgap determines which wavelengths of light a material can absorb. PV materials with wider bandgaps can absorb higher-energy, shorter-wavelength light (such as blue light), while those with narrower bandgaps absorb lower-energy, longer-wavelength light (such as red light). Crops mainly absorb red and blue light for photosynthesis, reflecting green light. By carefully selecting PV materials with specific bandgaps, scientists can fine-tune the “color” of light transmitted through semi-transparent PVs, allowing crops to receive the optimal wavelengths needed for growth. Associate Professor Ardalan Armin, who leads the project, highlighted the potential of this approach: “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 produces clean energy, but also increases food security.” The use of light solar panels on crops represents a positive development in agriculture that can change how we think about sustainable agriculture and renewable energy. Integrating solar systems into agricultural environments can take many forms, from attaching to the roof of greenhouses and many of tunnels to be used as protection for animals, these systems do not use local energy and have little impact on agriculture, but can reduce animal protection costs around the media weeds can be controlled. All in all, the innovative device developed by the University of Swansea is a major step forward in agriculture, to make better use of solar energy in the agriculture, plays an important role in achieving food production and energy production. have a home.