Recent research led by Ross Rucker from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey has unveiled promising advancements in the efficiency of vertical bifacial solar panels, particularly in the context of agrivoltaics—an innovative approach that combines agriculture and solar energy production. The study, presented in the ‘AgriVoltaics Conference Proceedings’, focuses on optimizing power output from these installations in New Jersey farms.
The research employs a sophisticated model to simulate the effects of sunlight and shading, which are critical factors influencing the performance of solar panels. By analyzing the positions of the sun and the arrangement of adjacent rows of panels, the team has been able to calculate the current and voltage outputs of the vertical bifacial panels under various conditions.
One of the key findings from Rucker’s work is the effectiveness of double-high modules, where two solar panels are stacked together. This configuration significantly enhances power generation per acre while only slightly increasing shading between the rows. Rucker noted, “Double-high modules offer significant gains per acre with only a modest increase of inter-row shading.” This insight could lead to more efficient land use, maximizing energy production without sacrificing agricultural space.
Additionally, the study highlights the importance of integrating bypass diodes and improving inverter wiring systems. These enhancements help mitigate power losses caused by shading, allowing farms to nearly double their total power output per acre. Rucker emphasized, “When bypass diodes and improved inverter wiring are also used, much of the losses due to shading are avoided.”
The implications of this research are substantial for the energy sector, particularly as the demand for sustainable energy solutions grows. By improving the efficiency of agrivoltaic systems, farmers can diversify their income streams through energy production while continuing to cultivate crops. This dual-use of land not only contributes to renewable energy goals but also supports agricultural resilience.
As the energy landscape evolves, the findings from Rucker’s study could pave the way for broader adoption of vertical bifacial solar panels in agrivoltaic applications, presenting new commercial opportunities for both farmers and energy developers. The integration of advanced technologies in solar panel configurations stands to revolutionize how we approach energy generation in agricultural settings, making it a pivotal area for future investment and innovation.
