Parametric comparison of a CPVT performance evaluation under standard testing procedures - ISO 9806:2017 and IEC 62108:2016 - for an automated and manual 2-axis tracking solar system stand

Abstract

Currently, a noticeable lack of literature with respect to a wide-ranging comparison of the precision exhibited by automated and manual two-axis tracking solar systems, particularly within the context of adhering to the standard testing protocols delineated by ISO and IEC. To address this research gap, a symmetrical concentrating Photovoltaic-Thermal solar collector underwent a detailed evaluation encompassing two standard testing procedures such as ISO 9806:2017 and IEC 62108:2016. This comprehensive assessment covered thermal and electrical performance parameters, unfolding across two distinct geographical locations: Athens (Greece) and Gävle (Sweden). Within this experimental framework, an automated two-axis tracking solar system stand was employed at the Greek testing site, while in Sweden it was characterized by the employment of a manual two-axis tracking solar system. The collective peak power performance presented marginal divergence within a narrow range of ± 1% across both testing sites. This culminated in an overall peak power output of 1550 Wpeak, which included an electrical peak capacity of 218 Wpeak and a thermal peak power of approximately 1332 Wpeak. Notably, the most pronounced deviation has been materialized in the transversal and longitudinal Incidence Angle Modifier coefficients, with disparities remaining limited to a threshold of < 5%. These findings underscore the commendable precision hallmarking. In summary, the outcomes presented in this study not only contribute to the extant body of knowledge by bridging the existing gap in literature, but also emphasize the precision inherent to manual two-axis tracking solar systems when compared with automated equivalents.