Heat stress on crops beneath solar energy systems?

Shading Effects on Crop Temperature

Solar panels can cast shade on crops, reducing their exposure to direct sunlight and leading to increased temperatures. Studies have shown that temperatures beneath solar panels can be up to 10°C (18°F) higher than ambient temperatures, depending on the panel’s angle and orientation. To mitigate this effect, farmers can consider using panel frames with adjustable angles to reduce shading during peak sun hours.

Radiative Heating Effects on Crop Temperature

In addition to shading, solar panels can also contribute to radiative heating effects, where the panels’ surface temperature is transferred to the surrounding crops. This can be mitigated by using solar panels with high-reflectivity coatings or by incorporating a reflective layer between the panels and the crops. For example, a study in California found that using a reflective layer reduced crop temperatures by up to 4°C (7.2°F) compared to traditional solar panels.

Cooling Strategies for Agrivoltaic Systems

To minimize heat stress on crops and optimize agrivoltaic system performance, farmers can implement cooling strategies such as using evaporative cooling systems or installing row covers. Evaporative cooling systems can reduce crop temperatures by up to 5°C (9°F) and increase yields by up to 15%. Row covers can also reduce crop temperatures by up to 3°C (5.4°F) and can be used in combination with other cooling strategies to achieve optimal results.