Agrivoltaic Agriculture Development

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Agriculture can be powered by Solar co-generation through photovoltaic energy also known as solar co-generation which combines photovoltaic (PV) technology with solar thermal technology to simultaneously produce electricity and useful heat from a single source, like solar energy. It utilizes the heat generated by PV panels, which is typically considered “waste heat,” to heat water or other applications, significantly increasing the efficiency of the system. [1, 2]

Key aspects of solar co-generation:

• Increased Efficiency: By capturing and utilizing the heat from PV panels, solar co-generation systems can achieve higher efficiency rates (e.g., up to 75%) than traditional PV systems alone. [2]
• Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By using waste heat for heating, solar co-generation systems can reduce reliance on fossil fuel-based heating systems, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions. [2]
• Photovoltaic-Thermal (PVT) Systems: Many solar co-generation systems are based on PVT technologies, where PV cells generate electricity and the heat produced is captured for use in heating or other thermal applications. [1, 3]
• Various Applications: Solar co-generation can be used for domestic hot water heating, space heating, industrial processes, and other applications where both electricity and heat are needed. [1, 4]
• Reduced Payback Time: Power Engineering International states that solar co generation systems often have shorter payback times compared to standalone PV or solar hot water systems, typically ranging between three and five years. [2]

Photovoltaic is a part of our smart villages initiatives that help decrease energy consumption for targeted communities. Please donate to help us develop smart communities with clean renewable energy!

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