In a groundbreaking study published in the journal “Energy Engineering and Control Systems,” researchers have demonstrated a novel approach to enhance the efficiency and profitability of solar power plants. The study, led by Andrii Dutko from Lviv Polytechnic National University, explores the feasibility of integrating agrophotovoltaic systems into existing solar power plants, offering a promising solution to some of the sector’s longstanding challenges.
The research focuses on an existing solar power plant, analyzing its operating conditions and identifying limitations that lead to underproduction of electricity. These limitations arise from excess electricity in the power system or restrictions due to grid maintenance and emergency modes. “We found that these constraints significantly reduce the efficiency of using the installed capacity of solar power plants,” Dutko explains. “This inefficiency not only affects the plant’s output but also its overall economic viability.”
To address these issues, Dutko and his team proposed the integration of an agrophotovoltaic system. This innovative approach allows for more efficient use of land resources by combining solar power generation with agricultural production. The system enables the cultivation of crops beneath the solar panels, thereby increasing the yield of agricultural products while also ensuring direct consumption of generated power on-site. This dual-use strategy helps eliminate restrictions on delivering generated power to the grid, thereby optimizing the plant’s overall performance.
The feasibility study conducted by Dutko’s team reveals that the payback period for such a system would not exceed three years. Moreover, the projected profit for the fifth year of operation is estimated to be up to €279,409. These findings highlight the significant commercial potential of agrophotovoltaic systems, offering a compelling case for their adoption in the energy sector.
The integration of agrophotovoltaic systems could revolutionize the way solar power plants operate, enhancing their efficiency and economic viability. As Dutko notes, “This approach not only addresses the limitations of traditional solar power plants but also opens up new opportunities for sustainable agriculture and energy production.” The study’s findings could pave the way for future developments in the field, encouraging more innovative solutions that combine renewable energy with agricultural practices.
This research, published in “Energy Engineering and Control Systems,” underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing the challenges faced by the energy sector. By leveraging the synergies between solar power generation and agriculture, agrophotovoltaic systems offer a sustainable and economically viable solution that could shape the future of renewable energy.