Central-station solar photovoltaic systems: Field layout, tracker, and array geometry sensitivity studies

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1991 · Solar Energy (Journal of Solar Energy Science and Engineering); (USA)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0038-092X(91)90065-5· OSTI ID:5897608

Gordon, J M; Wenger, H J ^[1]

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1. Ben-Gurion Univ. of the Negev, Sede Boqer (Israel) Ben-Gurion Univ. of the Negev, Beersheva (Israel)

The optimal design of central-station photovoltaic (PV) systems depends, among other factors, on the field layout of PV arrays, PV array geometry, tracking constraints, and intermodule electrical connections. The authors illustrate the sensitivity of yearly PV system energy delivery losses that stem form inter-array shading as a function of key field, tracker, and array-related variables for flat-plates. The results turn out, to an excellent approximation, to be independent of site. They quantitatively assess the magnitude of series/parallel module connections, and bypass diode placement within arrays, on energy losses attributable to inter-array shading. The sensitivity to key design parameters is also found to be predicted accurately by calculations of collectible energy only. As such, the calculations are of general value for rapid yet accurate PV system analysis and optimization.

• OSTI ID: 5897608
• Journal Information: Solar Energy (Journal of Solar Energy Science and Engineering); (USA), Vol. 46:4; ISSN 0038-092X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANTS
DESIGN
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
ENERGY LOSSES
FLAT PLATE COLLECTORS
GEOMETRY
OPTIMIZATION
PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS
SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS
SHADING
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEMS
SPECIFICATIONS
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
EQUIPMENT
HELIOSTATS
LOSSES
MATHEMATICS
PHOTOELECTRIC CELLS
POWER PLANTS
SOLAR COLLECTORS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SOLAR POWER PLANTS
SOLAR TRACKING
140704* - Solar Thermal Power Systems- Total Energy & Hybrid Systems- (1980-)