Energy performances of a new greenhouse for the area of Pompeii

The main purpose of this research is the energy evaluation of a photovoltaic greenhouse with an innovative framework, defined “Serra d’Arte”, designed for the area of Pompeii (south Italy). Using the simulation software ECOTECT, the energy performance was evaluated in terms of photosynthetically active radiation available inside the proposed greenhouse as well as annual electrical energy production. The simulations were performed considering two different covering materials and two types of semi-transparent photovoltaic modules. The results demonstrate that the “Serra d’Arte”, with or without photovoltaic modules, can be used in the considered location for the cultivation of many plant species. The use of photovoltaic modules, in which the area of photovoltaic cells is equal to 50% of the total surface of the module, allows both an acceptable shading of the crops and a suitable annual electrical energy production.