Agrivoltaics: Modeling the Relative Importance of Longwave Radiation from Solar Panels

Journal Article: Agrivoltaics: Modeling the Relative Importance of Longwave Radiation from Solar Panels

Abstract

Agrivoltaics, which integrate photovoltaic power production with agriculture in the same plot of land, have the potential to reduce land competition, reduce crop irrigation, and increase solar panel efficiency. To optimize agrivoltaic systems for crop growth, energy pathways must be characterized. While the solar panels shade the crops, they also emit longwave radiation and partially block the ground from downwelling longwave radiation. A deeper understanding of the spatial variation in incoming energy would enable controlled allocation of energy in the design of agrivoltaic systems. The model also demonstrates that longwave energy should not be neglected when considering a full energy balance on the soil under solar panels.

Contains a model

Contains novel data

Topics

Microclimatology

Relative humidity
Wind and airflow
Light and shading

PV Technologies

Impact on energy generation

Agrivoltaic Activity: Crop Production, Crosscutting PV

Authors: L.A. Shepard, C.W. Higgins and K.W. Proctor

Published Journal

Plos One, 10/2022

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0273119
Online: Internet link for Agrivoltaics: Modeling the Relative Importance of Longwave Radiation from Solar Panels

Citation

L.A. Shepard, C.W. Higgins, K.W. Proctor. 10/2022. Agrivoltaics: Modeling the Relative Importance of Longwave Radiation from Solar Panels. Plos One. 1-23.