A recent study by researchers from Nanjing explored the influence of module height in agri-PV (agricultural photovoltaic) systems on air and soil temperatures, which in turn affects crop growth. By examining systems positioned at heights of 2.5, 3.5, and 3.9 meters across different zones beneath the modules, the study found that the height significantly impacts soil temperature distribution. While minimal variations were noted in air temperature, the study highlighted that increased module height improves airflow and can optimize microclimatic conditions for crops.
The researchers studied three agri-PV systems in eastern China, noting how the height of these installations affected both thermal conditions and crop growth. The test areas were divided into three zones based on their position relative to the panels: the southern zone, the central zone, and the northern zone. The central zone represents the unshaded area, while the southern and northern zones were shaded by the panels. Measurements indicated that at a height of 2.5 meters, soil temperatures in the central zone were noticeably warmer than those under the modules. In contrast, at a height of 3.9 meters, the ground beneath the modules was warmer than in the central zone.
These findings imply that altering the height of agri-PV systems can significantly shape soil temperature distribution. Although differences in air temperature across various heights were minimal, the researchers observed that air circulation improved in the central zone with higher mounting. They concluded that this enhanced airflow contributes to a more balanced heat exchange, creating a beneficial environment for crop growth. Furthermore, by adjusting module heights, farmers can better regulate soil and air temperatures throughout their fields, thus potentially establishing optimal microclimates for diverse crop types.
The extensive study titled “Regulatory effect of agriphotovoltaic systems with different panel heights on the thermal environment” was published in the scientific journal Nature.
https://www.pveurope.eu/agriculture/agri-pv-module-height-determines-microclimate-crops