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Fabrication of High Contrast Gratings for the Spectrum Splitting Dispersive Element in a Concentrated Photovoltaic System
Published on: July 18, 2015
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Model (At Least) Twice, Build Once: Experiences With the Design-Bid-Build Process for Solar Photovoltaic Arrays.
Brian Dougherty1, Matthew Boyd1
1National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 8632, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8632.
Journal of Solar Energy Engineering
|April 9, 2024
Summary
Independent modeling of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems improved contractor designs, leading to an estimated 2.5% increase in annual energy generation for commercial-scale arrays. This study details the process and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Engineering
- Renewable Energy Systems
Background:
- Commercial-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays were installed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) campus.
- A design-bid-build process was utilized, involving contractor use of PV system modeling tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct independent PV system modeling to identify design improvements.
- To maximize annual renewable energy generation from the installed PV arrays.
Main Methods:
- Independent photovoltaic system modeling was performed to analyze contractor designs.
- Key events impacting the design-bid-build process were documented.
- Installed systems were summarized and compared with proposed designs.
Main Results:
- Independent modeling identified design elements for improvement.
- An estimated 2.5% gain in annual energy generation was achieved.
- Power generation data from three sites over two 12-month intervals were compared.
Conclusions:
- Independent modeling is a valuable tool for optimizing PV system design and maximizing energy output.
- The study provides insights into the design-bid-build process for large-scale renewable energy projects.
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