Energy losses in photovoltaic generators due to wind patterns

Abstract

Previously, in small scale demonstrations, researchers have increased photovoltaic efficiency through cooling by enhancing heat transfer from panels to the air through wind speed. Here I show in the real-world operation of a larger scale photovoltaic generator that increases in wind speed can lead to small but notable energy losses, reflected in the mismatch losses directly derived from the operating voltage of each module. Temperature distribution was measured simultaneously with the operating voltages, alongside the local wind speed and direction. Temperature differences arose from the variable heat transfer throughout the panel, depending on the wind incidence. This affected the operating temperature of each module, consequently affecting their operating voltage and the overall mismatch losses with losses increasing by up to 0.28%. My results suggest that wind patterns cannot be neglected, considering long-term energy estimations and the lifespan of a photovoltaic power plant.