Shade screens with rollable solar foil combines energy generation with climate control in greenhouses

Rollable screen

The goal of this project was to develop a system that both generates energy and optimises climate conditions in the greenhouse. By integrating flexible solar panels into rollable screens, local shading in the greenhouse is created while simultaneously generating electricity.

TNO developed a system where the integration of the solar cells is less sensitive to continuous movement. Due to the thinner layer stack of the solar cells, the entire rolled-up screen is manageable (not too thick).

"This project is a milestone in our quest for sustainable and affordable energy solutions. This solution is a beautiful demonstration of an actual flexible application of solar foil. A solution that could be also suitable for building screens, carports, and solar at sea," said Peter Toonssen of TNO.

More efficient energy generation and lower production costs

The shade screen with solar foil is a demonstration that shows that by integrating functionalities, the production costs of electricity generation can be reduced and efficiency improved.

The screen system is based on the standard Venlo greenhouse, which is widely used internationally.

Challenges

During the 3-year project period, researchers encountered various challenges. For example, it was complicated to get the generated energy from the moving parts out through robust wiring.

Further, partial shading of solar cells can lead to rising temperatures and also affect the robustness of the solar modules. In some cases only a temporary effect on power generated, but in extreme cases complete failure of the solar module was found. This is a point of attention that researchers are working on for implementation in the next phase.

Peter Toonssen: "During innovative processes, you sometimes encounter unexpected issues in test phases. That is why test periods are of great importance to us. We now know what the system can do and where we can still make improvements."

Looking ahead

Daniel Verzuu: "We started this project because we see a future in such innovative applications. The next step is a demonstration of the concept on a larger scale."

Further development of these technologies and their application of solar energy on a larger scale and on other surfaces is the next phase. Thus, mass customisation is increasingly coming into view.

TNO is working on various projects, including SolarNL and with the province of North Brabant, to bring the production of solar panels back to Europe with innovative concepts like this.