A comparative study between racking systems for photovoltaic power systems. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Barbón, A.; Ayuso, P. Fortuny; Bayón, L.; Silva, C.A.
• Is Part Of: Renewable energy. Volume 180(2021)
• Page Start: 424
• Page End: 437
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Photovoltaic power systems -- Racking systems with solar tracker -- Racking systems without solar tracker -- Optimum tilt angle; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2021.08.065
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-1481

Abstract

Abstract: We present a comparative study of the different racking systems used in photovoltaic power systems, with a new methodology for determining the total energy produced by each one under usual weather conditions (not clear-skies). In systems without solar tracker, the tilt angle is a major factor contributing to the energy production, and its optimization is essential. We study the effect of tilt update frequency (daily, monthly, or constant) on the total irradiation received by a plane surface, and present a method for computing the optimal tilt angle, which we validate using previous studies. This method is easily implemented, accurate, and valid for any location. We compare all the systems with the most energy-productive one, the dual-axis tracker, in two ways: with respect to energy production, and to levelized cost of energy, both in 39 cities around the World. The results provide a new insight on the relative and objective value of trackerless systems, and some remarkable properties arise, which may be relevant in budgetary consideration. Highlights: We study the effect of tilt angle update frequency (daily, monthly, or constant). We present a method for computing the optimal tilt angle (not clear-skies). We compare all the racking PV systems with respect to energy production, and LCOE. We provide a new insight on the value of trackerless systems. Energy diff. Between daily and monthly tilt angle adjustment is less than 0.14%.