Scientists are driven to research green and smart solutions in terms of the use of renewable energy sources and low polluting technologies. In this framework, photovoltaic (PV) technology is one of the most worthy of interest. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are innovative PV devices known for their encouraging features of low cost and easy fabrication, good response to diffuse light, and color tunability.
All these features make DSSCs technology suitable for being applied to the so-called agrovoltaic field, taking into account their dual role of filtering light and supporting energy needs. In this project, the research team used 40 DSSC Z-series connected modules with the aim of combining the devices’ high conversion efficiency, transparency, and robustness in order to test them in a greenhouse. The maximum conversion efficiency of 3.9% on a 221 cm2 active area was achieved with a transparency in the module’s aperture (312.9 cm2) area of 35%.
Moreover, different modules were stressed at two different temperature conditions, 60 °C and 85 °C, and under light soaking at the maximum power point, showing strong and robust stability for 1000 h. The research team assembled the fabricated modules to form ten panels to filter the light from the roof of the greenhouse. The team carried out panel measurements in outdoor and greenhouse environments in both sunny and cloudy conditions to find clear trends in efficiency behavior. A maximum panel efficiency in outdoor conditions of 3.83% was obtained in clear and sunny sky conditions.
Read the complete research at www.mdpi.com.
Barichello, J.; Vesce, L.; Mariani, P.; Leonardi, E.; Braglia, R.; Di Carlo, A.; Canini, A.; Reale, A. Stable Semi-Transparent Dye-Sensitized Solar Modules and Panels for Greenhouse Application. Energies 2021, 14, 6393. https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196393