Simulating the microclimate of a pilot greenhouse for testing innovative agri-voltaic system technology

Agri-Photovoltaics (Agri-PV) integrated in greenhouses optimize land use by combining solar energy production with crop cultivation, promoting sustainable agriculture. The REGACE project, funded by Horizon Europe, aims to develop innovative technology for PV in greenhouses to ensure uninterrupted food production. This paper introduces the initial steps of REGACE's vision by creating a dynamic model using Dynamic Building Simulation (DBS) software to understand the relationship between plant growth, energy use, and microclimate conditions in a pilot greenhouse at the University of Thessaly, Greece. The study uses the Penman-Monteith evapotranspiration model to simulate the greenhouse's thermal dynamics, identifying discrepancies between model predictions and actual temperature and humidity levels. The paper discusses these issues, attributing them to model simplifications and the need for more precise data on shading curtains and cooling systems.