Work

The development of fishery-photovoltaic complementary industry and the studies on its environmental, ecological and economic effects in China: A review

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: The fishery-photovoltaic complementary industry (FPCI) is an emerging industrial model in China that integrates aquaculture with the solar industry. This innovative model involves conducting aquaculture activities while installing photovoltaic modules on the water surface to harness solar energy for electricity generation. However, despite its rapid growth in China, this model lacks substantial scientific data support across various domains. Therefore, based on an analysis of relevant research literature, this study reviews the current development status, environmental and economic effects, as well as challenges faced by the FPCI in China. The aim is to provide scientific references for promoting sustainable development within this sector. The findings reveal that existing FPCI projects are primarily concentrated in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and Pearl River Basin. The geographical distribution of these projects is predominantly influenced by local aquaculture area and available solar energy resources, with a greater impact observed from the former rather than the latter. During summer months when water is shaded by photovoltaic panels, slight decreases are observed in water quality parameters such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, inorganic nitrogen content, and total phosphorus concentration. Conversely, there is a moderate increase noted in total nitrogen and ammonia nitrogen levels. The conclusion of the effect on phytoplankton biomass is not uniform, but it is certain that it will reduce zooplankton biomass. The impact on the species diversity of the zooplankton community was minimal, and its direction, whether positive or negative, varied depending on the specific aquatic ecosystem. A certain degree of shading is advantageous for cultivating shade-loving fish; by strategically deploying photovoltaic panels and implementing scientific stocking practices, it is possible to achieve comprehensive objectives such as maintaining fishery production levels, conserving energy and reducing emissions, and ensuring profitability in power generation. Additionally, adopting the FPCI mode can significantly save land resources. At the same time, research also pointed out that the existence of FPCI will inevitably have some negative impacts on bird communities. However, there are several challenges that need to be addressed for further development: these include difficulties associated with infrastructure construction and initial costs, long payback periods; insufficient experience and technical support; as well as a lack of research on ecological and environmental impacts - particularly an urgent need for comprehensive life cycle assessments encompassing both environmental and economic aspects.

Source: Energy Nexus

DOI: 10.1016/j.nexus.2024.100316