PROTECTION AGAINST HIGH TEMPERATURES AND EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS
When plants reach the so-called light saturation point, light is no longer beneficial to the crop, increasing water demand and potentially causing damage and hindering crop growth. Solar panels can be adjusted to allow the optimal amount of sunlight.
REDUCTION OF EVAPORATION AND INCREASE OF SOIL MOISTURE
The shade provided by the solar panels leads to a reduction in water evaporation and can achieve savings of up to 29%. Consequently, it helps to increase soil moisture, maintaining an optimal water level for plants.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE ECOSYSTEM
The integration of Agrovoltaics contributes to sustainable development and the protection and improvement of biodiversity and the ecosystem by prohibiting the use of herbicides, the use of hives and animal husbandry within the perimeter of the land and the installation of a perimeter fence with vegetation, among others.
INCREASED ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION AND EFFICIENCY
The existence of crops under the solar panels helps to reduce the temperature of these, increasing their productivity by up to +10% (Oregon State University).
Also:
- Solar panels can also reduce wind, helping further reduce evaporation while also reduce wind damage to crops and topsoil erosion
- Agrovoltaics can integrate animal grazing and beekeeping for more income streams and ecological benefits
- Additional thermal mass helps keep temperatures more stable between day and night