Semi-Transparent Photovoltaic Panels for Greenhouses: Experimental Study on Microclimate, Crop Growth, and Dust Mitigation
Abstract
This paper presents an experimental study on the effects of semi-transparent photovoltaic (PV) panels on greenhouse microclimate and vegetable crop growth. A prototype PV panel with 54% light transmittance, fabricated from monocrystalline silicon solar cells segmented into 180 × 45 mm units, was tested under real outdoor conditions in Uzbekistan. Measurements of light intensity, air temperature, and soil moisture were conducted using a Smart Sensor AS823 lux meter and digital thermometers. Results showed that average light intensity under the semi-transparent PV panel was 73,575 lux with an average temperature of 32.0 °C. For comparison, open-field conditions recorded 137,600 lux, while conventional opaque PV panels provided only 6,870 lux with a temperature of 33.9 °C. Soil moisture under semi-transparent panels was approximately 20% higher than in open-field conditions. Visual assessment of plant leaves (tomato, cucumber, eggplant, and bell pepper) indicated healthier morphology under semi-transparent panels. However, frequent dust accumulation on the panel surfaces in Uzbekistan’s dry climate reduced light transmission. Weekly cleaning with water was required to maintain stable crop growth and reliable energy performance. The findings demonstrate that semi-transparent PV panels not only generate electricity but also create favorable microclimate conditions for crops, making them a promising solution for sustainable greenhouse agriculture in arid regions.