The TSO System is ideal for nearly any crop type, given it's modular design and flexibility in precision control over shade vs. sunlight. Using our proprietary Shade Management software, operators can control various regions of the greenhouse differently based on crop type and need. Overall, shade-tolerant crops like lettuce, spinach, herbs, and some berries tend to perform well in greenhouses using solar and shade management technology. That said, with careful design, a wide variety of crops can be successfully grown, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and more.

Energy savings can be substantial, up to 100% of the greenhouse's energy requirements can be met with the TSO system. The exact savings depend on factors such as greenhouse size, location, and crop type. In many instances, greenhouses can generate enough power to become self-sustaining energy sources.

Payback periods typically range from 5 to 10 years for traditional solar, but with TSO Green's affordability, simplicity and energy efficiency, payback can be as fast as 1-2 years, including solar tax credits. Our payback period depends on factors such as installation costs, energy prices, and available incentives in the region. Some systems may achieve payback in terms of months with optimal conditions and government subsidies and/or available tax credits.

Many countries and regions offer incentives for solar installations in agriculture, including tax credits, grants, and feed-in tariffs. For example, in the United States, the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides grants and loan guarantees for renewable energy systems in agricultural operations. There are also available tax credits in many regions that can contribute a significant amount of funding towards implementation.

Solar panels can help regulate greenhouse temperatures by providing shade during peak sunlight hours, reducing the need for cooling. They can also help retain heat at night, potentially decreasing heating costs.

The TSO System generally requires very minimal maintenance. Our HiFi STMs and control systems are ruggedized to endure 20+ years of the harsh greenhouse environment. When maintenance is required on installed HiFi STMs or control system electronics, the easy-access pulley system can be utilized for swapping Blades or Modules. Removal of dust and debris can occur at the same time as regular cleaning of the greenhouse's interior.

The TSO System can be designed into new construction, or retrofit on existing structures. The HiFi Sunlight Tracking Modules require little additional structural support due to their lightweight and modular design. The TSO engineering team will work with designers to consider factors such as greenhouse frame dimensions, greenhouse orientation, and additional dead loads when incorporating the TSO system into greenhouse designs.

Yes, agrivoltaic systems can be designed to integrate with existing farmland without major disruption to current crop production. TSO’s scalable and adaptable solutions allow solar panels to be installed above fields while maintaining sufficient sunlight and space for crops below. This approach enables farmers to add clean energy generation to their operations, create a secondary revenue stream, and improve crop resilience, all without the need to start a new farm from scratch.