Project R-16879

Crop-centered perovskite photovoltaics: CROPTICS. (Research)

Agrivoltaics (Agri-PV) offers a dual use of land by combining energy generation and crop production. This approach addresses land scarcity while advancing renewable power. Conventional arrays, however, still force trade-offs: hard shade and static layouts reduce yields. Thin-film perovskite photovoltaics (PV) add a new lever. Their tunable spectra transmit crop-relevant light while harvesting the rest for electricity. This project investigates crop-centered agri-PV through spectrally selective perovskite modules, plant-responsive control, and an integrated PV–crop simulation framework co-designed with farmers. The work culminates in a demonstrator at PCFruit. We design thin-film devices that pass photosynthetically active radiation while absorbing surplus light. These are scaled into durable outdoor modules and verified through damp-heat, thermal cycling, and UV stress tests with full electrical and optical analysis. Plant responses are studied from cell to fruit. A rapid in-house method screens early growth and stress, followed by strawberries and pear trials. We assess photosynthesis, yield, sugars, antioxidants, and nutrients under spectral regimes. Ecosystem impacts are tracked under present and future climates. Soft liquid-metal sensors monitor stem elongation and fruit expansion in real time. Physics and biology are coupled in a simulation linking spectra, geometry, and microclimate. Farmers co-create scenarios to integrate agronomic, operational, and economic priorities. Adoption depends on trust and fit with daily practice. Therefore, participatory design brings farmer knowledge into early choices. In sum, the project enhances crop performance while producing clean electricity. It delivers spectrally tuned modules validated under stress tests, a multi-sensor platform, and an integrated PV–crop simulation tool with design guidelines for European deployment. The outcome supports resilient Agri-PV in the Flemish agri-food sector.

01 October 2026 - 30 September 2030