Weather responsive multidimensional photovoltaic efficiency model for simulation of custom-built bifacial panel

Abstract

A generalized model for predicting the relative efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) panels responsive to weather dynamics is developed in this article. The mathematical framework is derived using correlation analysis of experimental testbed measurements. The testbed included a mono and a custom-built bifacial panel with single-axis tracking. The bifacial panel was made using two mono-facials with a gap between the front and back surfaces, making the panel highly sensitive to the dynamics of weather variations. The proposed bifacial as well as commercial PVs are modeled based on the developed mathematical framework. PV systems with the proposed and commercial panels are investigated. Simulation results show that the developed model accurately portrays the values achieved in the experimental testbed for the proposed panel. Performance study of the proposed panel-based PV system produced the highest energy with space consideration in contrast to commercial panels while being economically effective.