Field Performance of South-Facing and East-West Facing Bifacial Modules in the Arctic
Abstract
This paper presents the first systematic comparison between south-facing monofacial and bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules, as well as between south-facing bifacial and vertical east-west facing bifacial PV modules in Alaska. The state’s solar industry, driven by the high price of energy and dropping equipment costs, is quickly growing. The challenges posed by extreme sun angles in Alaska’s northern regions also present opportunities for unique system designs. Annual bifacial gains of 21% were observed between side by side south-facing monofacial and bifacial modules. Vertical east-west bifacial modules had virtually the same annual production as south-facing latitude tilt bifacial modules, but with different energy production profiles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Feb 23, 2021
- Source ID
- 10.3390/en14041210
Entities
People
- C. D. Pike
- Erin Whitney
- Joshua S. Stein
- Michelle Wilber
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research