Prediction of solar energy input in greenhouses

This work investigates the influence of parameters that affect the solar energy collecting efficiency of greenhouses under Egyptian conditions. Parameters investigated are transmittance of greenhouse construction materials and the radiometric properties of greenhouse cladding and floor. A semi one-dimensional climate model is used to predict solar energy flux densities to and in greenhouse. The model is generated for this study based on the sun movement. Several solar energy fluxes in the greenhouse are simulated for a year-round cycle. The results point out that the efficiency of solar energy collecting of greenhouses is highly dependent on its position. A large amount of solar energy entering the greenhouse is found to be absorbed by the vegetation.