Can transparent solar cells be used in greenhouses?

"It means the idea of integrating transparent solar cells into greenhouses can be done." The solar panels in this case are semi-transparent organic solar cells (or ST-OSCs) rather than the more traditional silicon-based type used in vast solar energy farms. It's hoped that one day the same tech could even be used in the windows of buildings.

Could a semi-transparent solar roof help a greenhouse?

In an agrivoltaic study, UCLA engineers put a semi-transparent solar roof on a greenhouse, and some unexpected things happened with both the roof and the plants. The researchers at UCLA Samueli School of Engineering designed semi-transparent organic solar panels that can absorb energy from sunlight without blocking the light that the plants need.

What is a transparent solar panel?

Transparent solar panels limit the use of primary energy sources (petroleum, natural gas) for heating and cooling the greenhouse, reducing greenhouses' energy footprint. As the energy supply is renewable, it produces carbon-free electricity without affecting crop productivity.

Are transparent solar panels better than opaque solar panels?

Transparent solar panels capture solar energy without compromising aesthetics. They can be installed on windows and greenhouse structures. Its efficiency is lower compared to opaque panels.

Can organic photovoltaics make greenhouses more sustainable?

The study, “Achieving sustainability of greenhouses by integrating stable semi-transparent organic photovoltaics,” was published last week in Nature Sustainability. The research team’s organic solar cells rely on carbon-based materials, instead of inorganic substances used in conventional solar devices.

Could solar cells be used in a greenhouse?

That's promising for the future application of ST-OSCs: While greenhouses have many advantages, they can require more energy than other types of farming, not least to regulate the internal temperature. Transparent and semi-transparent solar cells could help here.