The Economic Times

In a 2023 study in San Severo, six medicinal crops grew beneath tracking solar panels; deep shade cut evapotranspiration by 81.1% but reduced biomass by up to 48.8%

A recent investigation conducted in Italy examined the effects of growing herbs beneath solar panels. The findings revealed a significant reduction in water loss due to the shade provided by the panels. However, while herb biomass declined under these shaded conditions, the essential oil content increased, somewhat balancing out the losses. This research sheds light on potential land-use trade-offs associated with solar energy development.