An innovative experiment by the National Research Council (CNR) has shown how perovskite solar cells placed on greenhouse roofs can produce electricity while promoting the growth of plants below. The "VertiGrow" research project, coordinated by Alessandra Alberti of the Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems in Catania, Italy, involved collaboration among several CNR institutes and recently attracted great interest in the scientific journal Nature Communications. The focus of the research is the use of semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, which not only convert sunlight into electricity, but also allow plants to grow under filtered light. During the experiment, the results of growing radicchio under light from a roof of solar panels were monitored. The researchers observed increased seedling germinability and larger leaves, with slight changes in genetic profiles, suggesting positive plant adaptation to this type of environment. The results suggest great potential for vertical farming and agro voltaics, opening up new prospects for agriculture integrated with solar energy production. Indeed, perovskite photovoltaic greenhouses could meet energy needs for heating, cooling and lighting, thus contributing to the creation of self-sufficient energy-food systems in both rural and urban environments. The study is part of the European Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities mission, proposing innovative solutions for a sustainable future.