Analysis of effects of elevation on the power output and efficiency of ground-mounted photovoltaic modules

This study examines the effects of elevation on the performance of ground-mounted photovoltaic modules, focusing on power output and efficiency. Outdoor experiments were conducted to assess the influence of varying mounting elevations on the electrical performance of PV modules. An experimental setup was deployed at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), where three identical polycrystalline PV modules were installed at elevations of 0.7 m, 1.1 m, and 1.6 m above a concrete surface. All modules were south-facing with a fixed 45° tilt to ensure consistent solar exposure. Measurements of solar irradiance, ambient and module temperatures, voltage, and current were recorded from 10:00 to 16:00 under clear-sky conditions. The PV module elevated at 1.1 m demonstrated the highest mean power output (31.64 W) and efficiency (6.67%), outperforming the modules at 0.7 m (25.34 W; 5.36%) and 1.6 m (19.70 W; 4.29%). Enhanced airflow and moderate albedo at 1.1 m reduced cell temperatures, improving electrical performance. Statistical analysis using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD confirmed that elevation height significantly influenced both power and efficiency (p < 0.001). The results highlight that an elevation of approximately 1.1 m optimises convective cooling and irradiance capture, providing a cost-effective strategy to enhance PV energy yield and operational reliability. This system offers strong techno-economic and environmental viability, characterised by a $0.0843 kWh⁻¹ levelized cost of electricity, and a CO₂ mitigation of 577.78 kg over 25 years.