Power output analysis of transparent thin-film module in building integrated photovoltaic system (BIPV)

Abstract

The power output of PV module was characterized depending on incidence angle and the azimuth using a transparent thin-film solar cell in a mock-up model at various slopes to the south, as a building integrated photovoltaic system. Simulated data was also evaluated to determine the influence of the inclined angles and the azimuth on the power performance of the PV module. The experimental and computed data fitted comparatively well through the relative error estimation after calibration. It was found that the PV module with a slope of 30°, facing south, provided the best power performance according to an annual power output, producing about 2.5 times higher power output than that with the vertical module. Furthermore, the PV module facing south showed higher power output than that to the east. The varying power output of the PV module with inclined angles can be explained by the impact of the incidence angle modifier of the glass on the PV module. Specifically, the increased inclined slope of the PV module resulted in the reduced solar energy transmission, which producing a significant reduction of power output for the PV module with a slope over 70°.