FLIPPING THE PANEL ON SOLAR ENERGY! ☀️💡 Did you know Bifacial modules convert both front- and back-side irradiance into electricity? While the additional rear-side irradiance improves plant performance in terms of energy production, revenue, and levelized cost of energy (LCOE), industry standards and best practices for predicting and quantifying these gains remain a work in progress. Let's shed light on three common misconceptions about bifacial gain in the real world.
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There's a new technology that takes efficiency to the next level. Bifacial modules. Unlike traditional PV modules, these innovative modules harness not only the front side Irradiance but also the backside Irradiance maximizing energy production and reducing cost. However, there's a common misconception about the real world gains of bifacial modules that need to be corrected. Misconception Number one The Engineer record defines Bifacial gain.
Many believe that the Bifacial gain percentage determined by the engineer of record is an accurate representation of real world performance. But that's not the case. Bifacial gain is not an input. It is a result. Bifacial gain depends on various design decisions, such as the racking type array, height and spacing. Each decision contributes to the overall gain, so it's important to consider these factors when predicting system performance.
Misconception Number two, the design drawings determine bifacial gain, while design decisions play significant role. Construction details are equally crucial in reality construction details and rear side shading from balance of system components matter. Water management practices and Combiner Box placement can affect Bifacial gain as build conditions must match the design plans to achieve the expected gain. Seasonality and location are key.
The time of year and project location are critical factors in capacity testing success. Note that unfavorable weather conditions can affect capacity testing, lower radiance shade or even inverter power limiting can lead to disqualification. Planning and scheduling the capacity test accordingly is essential to accommodate technologies like bifacial modules or high DC to AC ratios. Adjustments need to be made by adding a back of module power sensor for bifacial modules or modifying system operation for high DC to AC ratios.
Accurate capacity tests can be conducted. Understanding the truth about Bifacial gains and capacity testing is vital for maximizing the potential of solar power points. At Pure Power, we specialize in solar and energy storage applications. Contact us to partner with a full-service engineering team dedicated to delivering excellence and renewable energy projects.