Voltiris is rolling out a patented system of solar panels and spectral filters in Dutch horticulture. In collaboration with Dutch greenhouse builder Horconex, a trial is underway at Delphy in Bleiswijk.
The system from the Swiss startup consists of small solar panels and spectral filters that are placed at the top of the greenhouse. The filters allow PAR light to pass through to grow the plant and reflect and concentrate the other frequencies, including infrared, on the photovoltaic panels. The plant is thus not only protected against excessive radiation heat, but these panels also produce energy. There is no shadow due to the small size and the installation that is parallel to the sunlight.
The filters accurately follow the sun using the GPS location and small motors in the construction. This way, the grower can save up to thirty percent on total energy costs without production losses. This means the innovative system is suitable for any form of cultivation, states Kaz Vermeer.
Optimizing PV yield
To generate maximum solar energy with minimal impact on the crop, the greenhouse builder has lowered the entire underside screen - including motors - by more than a meter in the Delphy greenhouse. This was achieved by placing tubes and supports under the lattice and attaching new screen trays through tubes to the existing purlins. These adjustments have created enough space at the top of the greenhouse for Voltiris's V-profiles, solar modules, and motors.
Lowering the screen has two major advantages, which are being utilized in this collaboration, explains Albert Haket on behalf of the greenhouse builder. "One advantage is the ability to use a shade screen in the event of excessive radiation without compromising the PV yield. The second advantage is that the screen ensures that sunlight is reflected back towards the PV system, thus producing extra energy."
For more information:
Albert Haket
Horconex
Email: info@horconex.com
www.horconex.com
Voltiris
Email: kaz.vermeer@voltiris.com
www.voltiris.com