Title: An assessment of key environmental factors that impact performance and energy yield of large photovoltaic power plants

Authors: Saji Salkalachen

Addresses: Indian Institute of Science Campus, HE-151, Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore-560012, India

Abstract: Despite a good track record, the prime silicon-based cell and module technology face serious challenges in-field operation. Several yield-limiting factors, namely temperature, dust and soiling, potential induced damage (in humid conditions), etc., are responsible for losses in energy generation and, consequently, result in high maintenance cost. This study helps to assess a few key issues and reviews various options to redress them. The vertically mounted double-glass bifacial PV modules combine the advantages of low operating temperature, low soiling, land conservation, and improved energy yield. Incremental changes and engineering insights from a deep understanding of the ecology and environmental factors will impact the efficiency of operation and performance cycle of PV power plants favourably.

Keywords: photovoltaic module; temperature regulation; anti-soiling; super-hydrophobicity; vertically mounted photovoltaic power plant.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRET.2021.118503

International Journal of Renewable Energy Technology, 2021 Vol.12 No.4, pp.335 - 350

Received: 28 Jan 2021
Accepted: 21 Feb 2021
Published online: 27 Oct 2021 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article