On evaluating the effects of the incident angle on the energy harvesting performance and MPP estimation of PV modules

Abstract

SUMMARY The incident angle is a critical factor impacting the performance of fixed photovoltaic (PV) modules. Off‐normal incidence leads to significant changes in the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics and serious deterioration in the performance of fixed PV modules, resulting in difficulties in achieving optimal use of the available solar energy and retaining the maximum power output. To investigate this problem in depth, we develop a theoretical method based on the material properties and recombination mechanisms of the semiconductor, which can be used to directly evaluate the incident angle dependence of the energy harvesting performance and the maximum power point (MPP) estimation of PV modules composed of different materials from their I–V characteristic curves under irradiation. The proposed method is a simple approach with a low calculation burden. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated by examining the characteristics of the open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current, MPP, and the maximum output power of PV modules constructed of different semiconductor materials with respect to the various incident angles. The results are discussed in detail. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method could be used to optimize the performance of fixed PV modules and realize MPP control of PV systems during practical operation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Influence of the Incidence Angle Modifier and Radiation as a Function of the Module Performance for Monocrystalline Textured Glass and No Textured in Outdoor Exposed

“…There is a decrease short circuit current I sc in direct irradiation from 6.95 to 2.84 for monotextured and from 7.93 to 3.12 in the incident angle from 0° to 60°. This is due to the effect of variation in the minority carrier concentration as said by [21].…”

Design and Development of Low Cost, Portable, On-Field I-V Curve Tracer Based on Capacitor Loading for High Power Rated Solar Photovoltaic Modules

“…However, due to the harsh outdoor environment, the SPV module's long-term viability will inevitably undergo normal aging, resulting in a gradual decrease in power efficiency [10]- [13]. The impact of incident light angle, intensity, and ambient temperature on energy harvesting performance and Maximum Power Point (MPP) estimation of SPV modules significantly impacts the system's overall efficiency [14], [15]. Identifying an ideal geographical location for solar power plants' installation is also crucial in designing a viable SPV-based power project [16].…”

Capacitive Load-Based Smart OTF for High Power Rated SPV Module

“…The choice of a suitable geographical location for the construction of solar power plants also plays a vital role in designing an effective PV-based power project [27]. The effects of incident light intensity, incident angle, and atmospheric temperature on the energy harvesting output and Maximum Power Point (MPP) estimation of SPV modules have a significant influence on the overall efficiency of the system [28,29]. This research proposes the use of the Internet of things (IoT) for the outdoor performance characterization of SPV string, which demonstrates cost-effective data acquisition, interrelated computing, and power generator management.…”