Exploring the Effect of Environmental and Meteorological Factors on Photovoltaic (PV) Power Generation through Clustering Analysis

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) is a renewable energy solution that offers environmental sustainability and the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As PV systems become increasingly prevalent, the need for efficient monitoring, control, and optimization becomes paramount. Understanding the significance of environmental and meteorological factors, such as First Hour of Period, Distance to Solar Noon, Average Temperature, Average Wind Direction, Average Wind Speed, Sky Cover, Visibility, Relative Humidity, Average Wind Speed, Average Barometric Pressure, and Power Generated, on PV efficiency is essential for optimizing PV system design and operation. Clustering analysis is applied to identify distinct operational patterns and correlations among these parameters, providing valuable insights into PV system performance under varying conditions. The clustering analysis results in two distinct clusters, each representing specific operational characteristics of PV systems. Cluster 0 demonstrates peak generation capacity during mid-morning and afternoon hours, while Cluster 1 experiences peak generation during morning and evening hours. The silhouette coefficient of 0.708 validates the clustering results’ quality, signifying well-defined clusters and the relevance of the selected features. The findings can aid in optimizing PV system performance, guiding design decisions, and promoting the adoption of renewable energy solutions.