Experimental Evaluation and Energy Modeling of a Greenhouse Concept with Semi-transparent Photovoltaics

The use of semi-transparent photovoltaics (STPV) as a greenhouse cladding material can serve to transmit daylight while providing some shading and solar electricity generation. This paper experimentally validates an energy model of a greenhouse concept employing STPV. The model is then used to compare the energy performance of a full-scale greenhouse and a vertical farm concept, with both employing STPV. Simulation results for Montreal indicate that the vertical farm generates 49% less solar electricity and consumes up to 31% less heating than the greenhouse, whereas their cooling energy demand is approximately equal. This research evaluates promising design concepts for year-round urban agriculture and renewable energy generation.