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Researchers Test Solar Panels in Greenhouses to Increase Clean Energy Production in Agriculture

Published on 15/06/2022 at 20:58
peinel solar, energia solar, eletricidade, painéis solares
Créditos da imagem: Pixabay
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The Energy Crisis in the World Increases the Need for Studies to Increase Energy Production

Everything indicates that renewable energy sources will gain more space, replacing non-renewable energy sources in the coming years. However, clean technologies have additional obstacles that need to be overcome, such as the space for the installation of a solar power plant, for example. To solve the problem, researchers from the University of Greenwich, England, are installing transparent solar panels on greenhouse walls. 

The studies have gained even more importance due to the energy crisis and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Researchers believe that the energy produced by the transparent solar panels could be used to power automatic irrigation equipment and temperature control systems in the greenhouses. 

Construction of a Solar-Powered Greenhouse 

solar panel, solar energy, electricity, solar panels
Solar Panels in Greenhouse. Image Credit: University of Greenwich

The project consists of assembling semi-transparent vertical photovoltaic panels on the sides of the greenhouse and on the roof. The idea is to allow light to enter normally without the solar panels harming the plants. The study will be further explored to determine if the use of transparent solar panels in greenhouses can be implemented on a large scale. 

In addition to its energy ramifications, transparent solar panels over greenhouses can be a good alternative for residents who do not like to see solar panels covering the land in rural areas. Furthermore, farmers can increase the efficiency of their properties.  

The public understandably never wants to see land covered by solar panels, so this is a pragmatic way to adapt solar energy to existing structures… It is helping farms reduce their carbon footprint,” said Elinor Thompson, photosynthesis researcher at the University of Greenwich. 

The study is essential for the growth of solar energy in agricultural regions. Even knowing the importance and advantages of photovoltaic panels, their use in the countryside is limited due to the need to set aside a piece of land for that specific purpose. 

Solar energy has a number of positive points compared to other energy sources. Its main advantages are: cost savings, equipment lifespan, and property appreciation. On the other hand, the equipment is expensive, making its adoption challenging for the more vulnerable segments of the population. 

Demand for Fossil Fuels Increases in 2022

Concerns about the environment increased in 2022. Governments around the world expected to reduce carbon emissions throughout the year; however, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine increased global demand for oil and gas. Today, the leading producers of gas and oil have ramped up production, raising the impact on the environment. 

Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Jornalista especializado em uma ampla variedade de temas, como carros, tecnologia, política, indústria naval, geopolítica, energia renovável e economia. Atuo desde 2015 com publicações de destaque em grandes portais de notícias. Minha formação em Gestão em Tecnologia da Informação pela Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) agrega uma perspectiva técnica única às minhas análises e reportagens. Com mais de 10 mil artigos publicados em veículos de renome, busco sempre trazer informações detalhadas e percepções relevantes para o leitor.

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