Evaluating a Photovoltaic Greenhouse with Supplemental LED Lighting for Mushroom Production

Highlights The average hourly sunlight intensity in a photovoltaic greenhouse was analyzed. The difference in the sunlight intensity between sunny and overcast days was determined. The effect of light intensity on the yield and nutritional value of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s mane mushroom) was investigated. The annual energy performance of the photovoltaic greenhouse was obtained. Abstract. This study analyzed the effect of light intensity on the yield and nutritional value of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s mane mushroom) in a photovoltaic (PV) greenhouse to evaluate the environmental benefits of renewable energy use in agriculture. The light intensity in the PV greenhouse was measured and simulated at different times of day, during different seasons, and under varying weather conditions. It was concluded that the average light intensity was suitable for the cultivation of edible mushrooms. The maximum light intensity did not exceed 800 lux during the year. An experiment was conducted to assess the yield and nutritional value of Hericium erinaceus under various light conditions, including natural light, low light, and supplemental red and blue LED light. Low-light conditions improved mushroom growth, whereas supplemental blue light at night significantly increased the levels of some amino acids, particularly glutamate and leucine, which are essential for physiological functions. Blue LED light increased the content of phenolics, whereas low-light conditions increased the flavonoid content. The fat content was relatively low under sunlight conditions. The annual off-grid greenhouse PV system generated 3,036.5 kWh of electricity, meeting the greenhouse’s operational demand of 2,674.7 kWh and resulting in substantial energy savings. The carbon dioxide emissions were reduced by 1,313.57 kg per year. Keywords: Energy performance, Light intensity, Light uniformity, Mushroom cultivation, Photovoltaic greenhouses.