How do greenhouses use solar energy?

Greenhouses can utilize solar energy either through active (using separated collecting systems) or passive (using unique structural design to collect solar energy) systems. Solar greenhouses mostly rely on passive solar design but may use active energy systems [ 5, 20] and operate as a semi-passive system.

Can solar greenhouses solve the energy problem of greenhouses?

Solar greenhouses mostly rely on passive solar design but may use active energy systems [ 5, 20] and operate as a semi-passive system. Thus, solar greenhouses can be considered as a practical solution for the energy problem of greenhouses.

Should solar greenhouses be designed according to the local climate condition?

Our findings show that solar greenhouses should be designed regarding the local climate condition. For instance, the optimal solar greenhouse has the passive performance of 85% for the case study. This justified the application of optimization techniques for the optimal design of solar greenhouses.

What is a steel frame solar greenhouse?

With the development of the theory of active heat storage and release, a whole steel frame solar greenhouse has been proposed in recent years 16. This greenhouse structure is composed of a south roof, a north roof and columns. In this type of greenhouse, walls are replaced by columns.

How to design a solar greenhouse?

It is necessary to consider the dynamic characteristics of wind loads in the design of solar greenhouses. A wind-induced vibration coefficient is obtained, which can be used to convert the dynamic load into the equivalent static load and improve its design efficiency.

What is the difference between a solar greenhouse and a conventional greenhouse?

Since solar greenhouses are one type of solar collectors, they are more complex than a conventional greenhouse.