TITLE:
Solar Energy Generation Using Agriculture Cultivated Lands
AUTHORS:
T. Harinarayana, K. Sri Venkata Vasavi
KEYWORDS:
Energy; Shade; Farmer; Cultivation; Cities; Land
JOURNAL NAME:
Smart Grid and Renewable Energy,
Vol.5 No.2,
February
11,
2014
ABSTRACT: Generation of electricity using solar PV is
picking up in India in a big way in recent years. It needs a clear direction
such that it can optimally be utilized and the benefits, without being concentrated
in a few locations, can reach the majority of poor population as well. Indian
farmers, for the last few decades are affected in terms of availability of
electrical power. The present study suggests the use of fertile and cultivated
land with about 5 m elevated structure with solar panels. It creates shade on
the crops. In the present study, the shade effect on the crops below the
structure has been examined systematically through modeling studies. Different
solar panel design configurations are suggested such that the crops or plants
below, on the ground surface, can also be grown without any reduction in their
yield. The effect of the elevated structure on the neighboring lands is also
examined. It is shown that the present concept can easily be implemented in
India, perhaps in the world, at all the locations such that power can be
generated using farmer’s own land for his own benefit, perhaps with some profit
to him. The present concept, if implemented, also reduces the huge cost
involved in establishing the network of transmission and distribution lines.