How do you select the appropriate ground clearance for an agrivoltaic system?
The ground clearance of an agrivoltaic system directly affects the growing conditions of the crops beneath it and the operational efficiency of agricultural machinery. Excessive height increases steel usage and costs, while insufficient height can hinder light exposure and farming operations. Selecting the right height requires balancing power generation revenue with agricultural production needs. Ground clearance is primarily influenced by three factors. First is the crop type. Different crops have distinct requirements for light and space. Light-loving crops, such as wheat and corn, require ample light penetration, whereas shade-tolerant crops — like edible fungi and certain vegetables — can withstand more shading. Tall-stalk crops require greater vertical clearance beneath the panels. Second is the requirement for agricultural machinery access. This acts as a hard constraint determining the minimum ground clearance. Large machinery, such as tractors and combine h...