There are other plants that make hairs or trichomes, and the reasons for that are varied, from retaining moisture to preventing predation. I don't know how many of these evolved to live in full, day-long sunshine, but I'm sure more than a few have. So.. I think that even though we're not sure of the role of UV, we may ultimately find that getting as close to mimicking sunlight as possible is best.
I do also believe that there are different levels of sensitivity to UV due to evolving in, say, different latitudes, shade plants versus full sun, plants that grow at altitude, and so on.
Loss of light.. you know, years ago I'd seen a chart.. YEARS ago. It's been found to be (relatively) negligible, but also not something you want to make a permanent situation. The technique is used over two to four weeks at most. 1/8" plate if I recollect, no special coatings or treatments. Yes, 1/8" plate, have the edges sanded.