Detailed illumination model for bifacial solar cells

Area of Science:

• Renewable Energy
• Photovoltaic Technology
• Solar Energy Modeling

Background:

• Accurate modeling of solar irradiance is essential for predicting the performance of bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules.
• Existing models may not sufficiently detail ground illumination, which significantly impacts bifacial PV energy yield.
• Understanding irradiance distribution across the module is key to identifying performance-limiting factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a comprehensive illumination model for bifacial PV modules within large-scale solar power plants.
• To enhance the accuracy of irradiance calculations by detailing ground illumination from both direct and diffuse light.
• To provide a tool for calculating irradiance at multiple points along the module to determine minimum irradiance levels.

Main Methods:

• Developed a detailed illumination model considering direct and diffuse sky light.
• Incorporated a granular analysis of ground illumination, distinguishing between diffuse and direct light contributions.
• Implemented calculations for irradiance components at arbitrary positions along the module.

Main Results:

• The model provides detailed irradiance component calculations across the entire bifacial PV module.
• It accurately accounts for ground-reflected light, differentiating between diffuse and direct components.
• The methodology allows for the precise determination of minimal irradiance, a critical factor for PV module performance.

Conclusions:

• The presented illumination model offers a more accurate assessment of bifacial PV module performance in large fields.
• Detailed ground illumination modeling is vital for optimizing bifacial solar energy capture.
• The developed model and its open-source code (DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.3543570) can aid researchers and industry professionals.