Research shows ‘biosolar’ technology can increase the performance of PV panels, with a New South Wales study finding that integrating rooftop gardens with solar panels increased PV energy generation by up to 23.25%.
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) research shows PV panels installed as part of an integrated biosolar system installed in Western Sydney have outperformed a conventional rooftop system by an average of 11.1% during the Australian summer, with peak gains of up to 23.25% during extreme heat events.
The study, led by the UTS in collaboration with the Bradfield Development Authority (BDA), focused on a biosolar system installed atop the First Building, the first construction project delivered as part of the greater Bradfield City site being developed in Western Sydney.
The biosolar system combines 319 north-facing solar panels installed over more than 14,000 native plants. The solar system covers 30% of the 1,300 m2 roof.
Lead researcher, UTS Associate Professor Peter Irga, said one of the major challenges for solar generation is high temperatures with solar panels performing most efficiently at 25 C, with efficiency dropping by up to 2% for every degree above that threshold.
