Evaluating the Impact of Agrivoltaic Systems on Microclimate and Andrographis paniculata Growth

Abstract

Agrivoltaic systems (AVS) integrate photovoltaic (PV) systems with agricultural production, presenting a dual strategy that optimize both energy and crop yields. This study aims to evaluate the effects of AVS on microclimate and growth performance of Andrographis paniculata, a medicinal herbaceous. The experiment consists of three treatments; Mono-Photovoltaic (MPV), Monocrop (MC), and AVS system (where the crops are grown under solar panels). Parameters like air temperature, humidity, and light intensity of the microclimate, and soil data such as soil temperature, moisture content, and electrical conductivity values are taken using sensors connected to a datalogger. Next, parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves and SPAD value are measured and analyzed. The results show that AVS not only provide shade, but also produce a 6% cooler and 8.9% humid microclimate compared to MC, that benefits the growth of Andrographis paniculata and potentially improve the efficiency of PV. Furthermore, growing media under the AVS recorded higher moisture content, suggesting good water retention, which possibly reduce the irrigation water requirement. The study concludes that AVS system can be a practicable method to improve both productions in Malaysia. Thus, suggesting further research on other crops, irrigation management, and large-scale implementation of AVS.