The effect of solar panels on the growth of medicinal crops: research results

During the scientific work conducted in Italy, specialists studied the cultivation characteristics of medicinal plants under the shading created by tracking solar panels. The experiment involved six crop species, including lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Royal Purple'), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), common thyme (Thymus vulgaris), and sage (Salvia officinalis).

Data obtained during the 2023 study in San Severo indicate that deep shade from the installations reduces the evapotranspiration rate by 81.1%. At the same time, such light conditions led to a decrease in total plant biomass by up to 48.8%. However, the study authors note that the drop in biomass volume is partially offset by an increase in the concentration of essential oils in the harvested raw material.

The obtained results allow for an assessment of the balance of interests when co-using agricultural land for the needs of agronomy and the development of solar energy.