scholarly journals Examining the Impact of Different Technical and Environmental Parameters on the Performance of Photovoltaic Modules

2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Radwan H. Abdel Hamid ◽  
Youssef Elidrissi ◽  
Adel Elsamahy ◽  
Mohammed Regragui ◽  
Karim Menoufi
Keyword(s):  
Tilt Angle ◽  
Power Output ◽  
Environmental Parameters ◽  
Outdoor Environment ◽  
Electrical Performance ◽  
Single Experiment ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Glass Surfaces ◽  
The Impact

Abstract This article presents an evaluation of the performance of PV modules with the variation of some technical and environmental parameters: The PV module tilt angle, and the impact of soiling on the power output of PV module, and the transmittance of the PV glass surfaces. The experiments were achieved in Helwan City (Egypt) at the premises of the Faculty of Engineering of Helwan University. For the soiling part, it comprises two experiments: Transmittance of PV glass surfaces, and the power output of PV modules. For the transmittance experiment, it has been achieved using a simplified method, where three PV glass surfaces were placed at three different tilt angles (0°, 15°, and 30°) and left exposed to the outdoor environment without cleaning for a period of 25 days during the summer season. For the experiment concerning the impact of soiling on the power output, a set of PV modules connected in series have been exposed for a period of 75 days to the outdoor environment without cleaning. Finally, for the PV module tilt angle experiment, another set of PV modules have been used for that purpose, where four different tilt angles were experimented: 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°. The present research recommends that more studies are needed in the same context, taking into consideration correlating the technical and environmental parameters in one single experiment and during different times of the year. This would be helpful in having overarching perspective regarding the electrical performance of PV modules under different circumstances of tilt angles and soiling patterns within the area of Helwan (Egypt).

scholarly journals Soiling of Photovoltaic Modules: Comparing between Two Distinct Locations within the Framework of Developing the Photovoltaic Soiling Index (PVSI)

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (17) ◽  
pp. 4697 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thamer Alquthami ◽  
Karim Menoufi
Keyword(s):  
Simple Procedure ◽  
Outdoor Environment ◽  
Electrical Performance ◽  
Dust Density ◽  
Photovoltaic Modules ◽  
Future Performance ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Interactive Map ◽  
The Impact

This article evaluates the impact of dust accumulation on the performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules in two different locations inside Egypt, Cairo and Beni-Suef. Two identical PV modules were used for that purpose, where each module was exposed to the outdoor environment in order to collect dust naturally for a period of three weeks, each in its corresponding location. The approximate dust density on each of the two PV modules was estimated. Moreover, the electrical performance was evaluated and compared under the same indoor testing conditions. The results show a better electrical performance and less dust density for the PV module located in Cairo compared to that located in Beni-Suef. The results further provide an indication for the impact of soling in different locations within the same country through a clear and simple procedure. In addition, it paves the way for establishing a Photovoltaic Soiling Index (PVSI) in terms of a Photovoltaic Dust Coefficient, as well as a Photovoltaic Dust Interactive Map. The product of such concepts could be used by the Photovoltaic systems designers everywhere in order to estimate the impact of dust on the future performance of PV modules in small and large installations in different regions around the globe, and during different times of the year as well.

scholarly journals Modeling of Photovoltaic Module Using the MATLAB

2019 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
pp. 59-69
Author(s):  
Alok Dhaundiyal ◽  
Divine Atsu
Keyword(s):  
Standard Test ◽  
Electrical Performance ◽  
Photovoltaic Module ◽  
Solar Pv ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Current Voltage ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
The Impact ◽  
The Mathematical Model

This paper presents the modeling and simulation of the characteristics and electrical performance of photovoltaic (PV) solar modules. Genetic coding is applied to obtain the optimized values of parameters within the constraint limit using the software MATLAB. A single diode model is proposed, considering the series and shunt resistances, to study the impact of solar irradiance and temperature on the power-voltage (P-V) and current-voltage (I-V) characteristics and predict the output of solar PV modules. The validation of the model under the standard test conditions (STC) and different values of temperature and insolation is performed, as well as an evaluation using experimentally obtained data from outdoor operating PV modules. The obtained results are also subjected to comply with the manufacturer’s data to ensure that the proposed model does not violate the prescribed tolerance range. The range of variation in current and voltage lies in the domain of 8.21 – 8.5 A and 22 – 23 V, respectively; while the predicted solutions for current and voltage vary from 8.28 – 8.68 A and 23.79 – 24.44 V, respectively. The measured experimental power of the PV module estimated to be 148 – 152 W is predicted from the mathematical model and the obtained values of simulated solution are in the domain of 149 – 157 W. The proposed scheme was found to be very effective at determining the influence of input factors on the modules, which is difficult to determine through experimental means.

scholarly journals Effect of Wind Load on Performance of Photovoltaic (PV) Modules Available in Pakistan

2021 ◽  
Vol 40 (4) ◽  
pp. 860-866
Author(s):  
Rizwan Mehmood Gul ◽  
Fahad Ullah Zafar ◽  
Muhammad Ali Kamran ◽  
Muhammad Noman
Keyword(s):  
Power Output ◽  
Mechanical Load ◽  
Wind Load ◽  
International Standards ◽  
Load Test ◽  
Mechanical Integrity ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Iec 61215 ◽  
The Impact

Mechanical integrity of a Photovoltaic (PV) module plays a major role in its performance and electrical output. Mechanical loads which include loads produced by wind, snow, rain, and hail tend to degrade the performance of PV module by generating stresses and enhancing micro-cracks and defects. This research aims to investigate the impact of wind loads on the performance of PV modules, particularly the degradation in its power output. A load of 2400 Pa was applied as per international standards (ASTM E1830-15 and IEC-61215). A total of four PV module samples, of the same specifications with 60 W rated power, were initially subjected to solar flash testing and Electroluminescence (EL) imaging. This was followed by three cycles of mechanical load test. After the mechanical load tests, the modules were again subjected to solar flash testing and EL imaging and the results were compared. It was noted that static wind load degrades the mechanical integrity of photovoltaic modules in two ways; by aiding the propagation of existing cracks and initiating new cracks. This loss of mechanical integrity degraded the power output of PV module. Maximum drop of 2% in the power output and 0.27% in the efficiency was observed. In addition, the average increase of 3.37% in the series resistance was observed indicating decrease in performance.

scholarly journals Experimental Effect of the Impact of Stagnant Water on Solar Modules

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 2095-2100
Keyword(s):  
Experimental Study ◽  
Power Output ◽  
Output Voltage ◽  
Operating Temperature ◽  
Output Current ◽  
Stagnant Water ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Experimental Effect ◽  
The Impact

In this research, an experimental study of the impact of stagnant water on solar modules is investigated. Two different experiments using two identical photovoltaic (PV) modules S1 and S2 were used for the study. In the first experiment, the PV module S1 was covered with stagnant water and the second PV module was unshielded with water. In the second experiment, the PV modules were swapped with S2 covered with stagnant water and S1 unshielded with water. The experiments were carried out under normal operating temperature of PV cells at the Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka on latitude 6:52 degrees north, longitude 7:23 degrees. Results obtained from the first experiment show that the efficiency and power output of S1 PV module decreased by 9.3% and 8.0% respectively when compared with that of S2 PV module. In the case of output voltage and current, it was found that shielding of PV module S1 with stagnant water caused an increase in the output voltage by 1.93% and a decrease in the output current by 10.26%. In the second experiment, the efficiency and Output power of PV module S2 decreased by 9.21% and 8.18% respectively when compared with the unshielded PV module S1. In the case of voltage and current, it was found that shielding of PV module S2 with stagnant water caused an increase in the Output voltage by 1.63% and decrease in the output current by 10.91%.

scholarly journals Experimental Characterisation of Photovoltaic Modules with Cells Connected in Different Configurations to Address Nonuniform Illumination Effect

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
Damasen Ikwaba Paul
Keyword(s):  
Power Output ◽  
Maximum Power ◽  
Electrical Performance ◽  
Maximum Power Output ◽  
Nonuniform Illumination ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Illumination Effect ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
In Series ◽  
Total Maximum

Most concentrating systems that are being used for photovoltaic (PV) applications do not illuminate the PV module uniformly which results in power output reduction. This study investigated the electrical performance of three PV modules with cells connected in different configurations to address nonuniform illumination effect. PV module 1 is the standard module consisting of 11 solar cells connected in series whereas PV module 2 is a proposed design with 11 cells in three groups and each group consists of different cells in series connections. PV module 3 is also a new design with 11 cells in two groups and each group consists of different cells connected in series. The new PV modules were designed in such a way that the effect of nonuniform illumination should affect a group of cells but not the entire PV module, leading to high power output. The PV modules were tested under three different intensities: uniform, low nonuniform, and high nonuniform illumination. When the PV modules were tested at uniform illumination, the total maximum power output of PV module 1 was higher than that of PV module 2 and PV module 3 by about 7%. However, when the PV modules were tested at low nonuniform illumination, the total maximum power output of PV module 2 was higher than that of PV module 1 and PV module 3 by about 4% and 7%, respectively. This difference increased to about 12% for PV module 3 and 17% for PV module 1 when the modules were tested at high nonuniform illumination. Therefore, the best PV module design in addressing nonuniform illumination effect in solar collectors is PV module 2. In practical situation this implies that manufacturers of PV modules should consider designing modules with groups of cells in series connection instead of all cells being connected in series.

scholarly journals Application of thermal comfort assessment models to indoor areas near glazed walls – experimental evaluation

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 106-127
Author(s):  
António Manuel Figueiredo Freitas Oliveira ◽  
◽  
Helena Corvacho ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Solar Radiation ◽  
Thermal Comfort ◽  
Thermal Environment ◽  
National Laboratory ◽  
Environmental Parameters ◽  
Outdoor Environment ◽  
Assessment Model ◽  
Indoor Space ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Indoor Spaces

In this paper, some of the results of an experimental study are presented. Its purpose was to better understand the impact of glazing on thermal comfort of users of indoor spaces (living and working), especially in the areas near glazed walls. Glazed elements, such as windows and glazed doors, allow visual access to the outdoor environment and the entrance of natural light and solar heat gains but they are often the cause of unwanted heat losses and gains and are disturbing elements in obtaining thermal comfort, both in global terms and in what concerns local discomfort due to radiant asymmetries and/or air draughts. Furthermore, solar radiation directly affecting users in the vicinity of glazing can also cause discomfort. These disturbances are recognized by users, both on cold winter days and on hot summer days. To assess thermal comfort or thermal neutrality of a person in a particular indoor space, it is important to know their location within that space. Thus, in order to adequately assess thermal comfort in the areas near the glazing, the indoor thermal environment must be characterized for this specific location. In this study, two indoor spaces (a classroom and an office-room) of a school building were monitored at different periods of the year. The measurements of the environmental parameters were performed both in the center of the rooms and in the areas near the glazing. Five models of thermal comfort assessment were then applied to the results, in order to compare the comfort conditions between the two studied locations and to evaluate the applicability of these models to the areas close to glazed walls. It was observed there was clearly a greater variability of comfort conditions in the vicinity of the glazed walls when compared to the center of the rooms. The application of thermal comfort assessment models to the two studied rooms was able to reveal the differences between the two compared locations within each space. It was also possible to show the effect of incoming solar radiation and the influence of the geometry of the spaces and of the ratio between glazed area and floor area by comparing the results for both spaces. The assessment model proposed by LNEC (Portuguese National Laboratory of Civil Engineering) proved to be the most adapted to Portuguese users’ habits.

Solar Micro-Inverter

2020 ◽  
pp. 283-303
Author(s):  
Sivaraman P. ◽  
Sharmeela C.
Keyword(s):  
Power Generation ◽  
Tilt Angle ◽  
Solar Pv ◽  
Dc Voltage ◽  
Design Engineers ◽  
Design Flexibility ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Mppt Controller ◽  
Micro Inverter

A solar micro inverter is a small-size inverter designed for single solar PV module instead of group of solar PV modules. Each module is equipped with a micro inverter to convert the DC electricity into AC electricity and the micro inverter is placed/installed below the module. The advantages of micro inverters are: reduced effect of shading losses, module degradation and soiling losses, enabled module independence, different rating of micro inverter can be connected in parallel to achieve the desired capacity, additional modules can be included at time which allows the good scalability, string design and sizing are avoided, failure of any micro inverter does not affect the overall power generation, individual MPPT controller for each module increases the power generation, any orientation and tilt angle allows higher design flexibility, lower DC voltage increasing the safety, easy to design, handle and install, requires less maintenance, draws attention of design engineers, contractors, etc.

scholarly journals Outdoor Performance Test of Bifacial n-Type Silicon Photovoltaic Modules

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (22) ◽  
pp. 6234 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hyeonwook Park ◽  
Sungho Chang ◽  
Sanghwan Park ◽  
Woo Kyoung Kim
Keyword(s):  
Tilt Angle ◽  
Performance Test ◽  
Power Production ◽  
Energy Yield ◽  
Concrete Floor ◽  
Photovoltaic Modules ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Solar Tracker ◽  
One Year

The outdoor performance of n-type bifacial Si photovoltaic (PV) modules and string systems was evaluated for two different albedo (ground reflection) conditions, i.e., 21% and 79%. Both monofacial and bifacial silicon PV modules were prepared using n-type bifacial Si passivated emitter rear totally diffused cells with multi-wire busbar incorporated with a white and transparent back-sheet, respectively. In the first set of tests, the power production of the bifacial PV string system was compared with the monofacial PV string system installed on a grey concrete floor with an albedo of ~21% for approximately one year (June 2016–May 2017). In the second test, the gain of the bifacial PV string system installed on the white membrane floor with an albedo of ~79% was evaluated for approximately ten months (November 2016–August 2017). During the second test, the power production by an equivalent monofacial module installed on a horizontal solar tracker was also monitored. The gain was estimated by comparing the energy yield of the bifacial PV module with that of the monofacial module. For the 1.5 kW PV string systems with a 30° tilt angle to the south and 21% ground albedo, the year-wide average bifacial gain was determined to be 10.5%. An increase of the ground albedo to 79% improved the bifacial gain to 33.3%. During the same period, the horizontal single-axis tracker yielded an energy gain of 15.8%.

scholarly journals Experiment-based Study on the Impact of Soiling on PV System’s Performance

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 810
Author(s):  
Wan Juzaili Jamil ◽  
Hasimah Abdul Rahman ◽  
Kyairul Azmi Baharin
Keyword(s):  
Tropical Climate ◽  
System Efficiency ◽  
Worst Case ◽  
Solar Photovoltaics ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
Dust Loading ◽  
Module Performance ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Full Day

Soiling refers to the accumulation of dust on PV modules which plays a small but significant role in degrading solar photovoltaics system efficiency. Its effect cannot be generalized because the severity is location and environment dependent. Currently, there are limited studies available on the soiling effect in the hot and humid Malaysian tropical climate. This paper presents an experimental-based approach to investigate the effect of soiling on PV module performance in a tropical climate. The experiment involved a full day exposure of a polycrystalline PV module in the outdoors with accelerated artificial dust loading and an indoor experiment for testing variable dust dimensions. The findings show that for the worst case, the module’s output can be reduced by as much as 20%.

scholarly journals Sustainable End of Life Management of Crystalline Silicon and Thin Film Solar Photovoltaic Waste: The Impact of Transportation

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (16) ◽  
pp. 5465 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ilke Celik ◽  
Marina Lunardi ◽  
Austen Frederickson ◽  
Richard Corkish
Keyword(s):  
Thin Film ◽  
United States ◽  
End Of Life ◽  
Crystalline Silicon ◽  
The United States ◽  
Hotspot Analysis ◽  
Material Recovery ◽  
Pv Module ◽  
Pv Modules ◽  
The Impact

This work provides economic and environmental analyses of transportation-related impacts of different photovoltaic (PV) module technologies at their end-of-life (EoL) phase. Our results show that crystalline silicon (c-Si) modules are the most economical PV technology (United States Dollars (USD) 2.3 per 1 m2 PV module (or 0.87 ¢/W) for transporting in the United States for 1000 km). Furthermore, we found that the financial costs of truck transportation for PV modules for 2000 km are only slightly more than for 1000 km. CO2-eq emissions associated with transport are a significant share of the EoL impacts, and those for copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) PV modules are always higher than for c-Si and CdTe PV. Transportation associated CO2-eq emissions contribute 47%, 28%, and 40% of overall EoL impacts of c-Si, CdTe, and CIGS PV wastes, respectively. Overall, gasoline-fueled trucks have 65–95% more environmental impacts compared to alternative transportation options of the diesel and electric trains and ships. Finally, a hotspot analysis on the entire life cycle CO2-eq emissions of different PV technologies showed that the EoL phase-related emissions are more significant for thin-film PV modules compared to crystalline silicon PV technologies and, so, more environmentally friendly material recovery methods should be developed for thin film PV.

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