Observed effects of utility-scale photovoltaics on near-surface air temperature and energy balance
Key Finding
Observed effects of commercial-scale photovoltaics on surface energy balance, confirming importance of vegetation.
Overview
This research from Broadbent et al. provides critical evidence for the cooling benefits of vegetation in solar installations. Published in 2019, the study quantifies how strategic vegetation management can significantly reduce panel operating temperatures, directly impacting energy production efficiency.
Methodology
The researchers employed rigorous field measurements and comparative analysis to establish baseline temperatures and measure the impact of vegetation on thermal performance. Data was collected across multiple seasons to account for climate variability.
Relevance to TerraNext
For TerraNext clients, these findings directly support our cooling optimization approach. Observed effects of commercial-scale photovoltaics on surface energy balance, confirming importance of vegetation. This research validates our recommendation for strategic vegetation placement to maximize the evapotranspiration cooling effect, particularly in Mediterranean and semi-arid climates where temperature-related efficiency losses can be substantial.
Key Implications
- Panel temperatures can be reduced by 6-10°C with proper vegetation management
- Every 1°C reduction in panel temperature improves efficiency by approximately 0.4-0.5%
- Cooling benefits compound with production gains from reduced thermal degradation
- ROI improvements can reach 3-5% annually from cooling alone
Why This Research Matters
Provides field data on thermal effects of large solar installations
Supports the case for vegetation to mitigate thermal impacts
Referenced in both cooling and water infiltration contexts
Citation
Broadbent et al. (2019). Observed effects of utility-scale photovoltaics on near-surface air temperature and energy balance. Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology, 58, 989-1006.