South-Oriented PV Trackers: A Solution for Tree Plantations?

Single-axis trackers in AgriVoltaics (APV) systems traditionally face East-West (E-W) to track the sun's path. This study investigates the viability of North-South (N-S) oriented trackers for optimising irradiance distribution in tree plantations. Using a modelling framework and meteorological data from Aix-en-Provence, France, we demonstrate that N-S trackers create distinct shading patterns on the ground that shift throughout the year due to varying solar zenith angles. By strategically positioning photovoltaic (PV) panels relative to tree canopies, our simulations show potential for minimising shading on sun-loving crops like apricot trees, crucial for maintaining photosynthesis levels. We propose innovative tracking algorithms to mitigate shading effects during different seasons, preserving both electrical output and agricultural productivity. Our simulations indicate that N-S trackers offer comparable electricity production to E-W configurations in sun-tracking mode and outperform fixed arrays-oriented South, with minimal losses in irradiance during critical growth periods. Additionally, N-S trackers show promise in reducing soil evaporation, which could enhance water balance in agricultural settings. Future research employing 3D modelling and integrated PV-crop simulations is recommended to optimise design parameters and assess the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) for further validation.