The integration of semi-transparent photovoltaics on greenhouse roof for energy and plant production

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of semi-transparent building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) mounted on top of a greenhouse, on the growth of tomatoes and microclimate conditions as well as to estimate the generated energy and the payback period of this system. Three modules were settled at 20% of the greenhouse roof area at a tilt angle of 30° facing south at a distance of 0.08 m between the plastic cover and the BIPV. Each module has a peak power of 170 Wp and efficiency of 8.25%. Results revealed that the annual generated electric energy of the BIPV was 637 kWh. Furthermore, there were no significant differences (P