Solar Photovoltaic Panels Research Articles

Selection of optimal strategy for managing decentralized solar PV systems considering uncertain weather conditions

Solar power is a promising source of energy that is environmentally friendly, sustainable, and renewable. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are the most common and mature technology used to harness solar energy. Unfortunately, these panels are prone to dust accumulation, which can have a significant impact on their efficiency. To maintain their effectiveness, solar photovoltaics s must be cleaned regularly. Eight main techniques are used to clean solar panels: natural, manual, mechanical, robotic, drone, coating, electrical, and acoustic. This study aims to identify the best cleaning method using multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques. Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Quality Function Deployment (QFD), Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarities to Ideal Solution (FTOPSIS), and Preference Selection Index (PSI), this research evaluates all eight cleaning methods based on several criteria that are categorized under cost, performance, resource requirement, and safety in Abu Dhabi. The data are collected from surveys completed by experts in solar and sustainable energy. The AHP, QFD, and PSI results identified natural, manual, and surface coating as the best and most effective cleaning methods. Natural cleaning involves using rainwater primarily to remove dirt and dust; manual cleaning requires cleaning agents and wiping clothes; and surface coatings involve applying a layer of hydrophobic material to the panels to repel dust. Identifying the most effective cleaning method for dust removal from solar panels can ensure optimal efficiency recovery at minimal costs and resources.

Feasibility study of hybrid renewable energy systems for off-grid electrification in Kuwait’s rural national park reserve

ABSTRACT This study demonstrates the optimal design of a hybrid renewable energy system for the electrification of a potential rural national park reserve. The objective is to evaluate the feasibility of utilising renewable energy sources (RESs) to reduce GHG emissions. The core components studied are photovoltaic solar (PV) panels, wind turbines (WTs), diesel generators (DGs), and battery banks (BBs). The research involves estimating the reserve’s load profile, assessing the potentials of RESs, and designing various system configurations. Each configuration is evaluated to derive the most efficient option. For a building with an energy demand of 832,640 kWh/yr, it is found that PV-WT-BB is the best configuration which comprises of 500-kW PV, 200-kW WT, and 1424-kW BBs and contributes an annual generation of 1,821,732 kWh/year. With a net present cost of $2,206,308 for the lifetime of the project, it saves 757,162 kg/year of total GHG emissions if the reserve operated using DGs.

High transmittance BiVO4 thin-film photoanodes by reactive magnetron sputtering for a photovoltaic-photoelectrocatalysis water splitting system

As the system with the highest solar hydrogen conversion efficiency, the further improvement of photovoltaic-photoelectrocatalysis (PV-PEC) efficiency is dependent on the light transmittance, activity and stability of the photoanode. Here, a highly permeable BiVO4 thin film was fabricated through controlled magnetron sputtering. The thickness of the thin film was merely 345 nm, while its transmittance in the visible light range reached as high as 70%. Moreover, large-scale production of such films could be achieved. By incorporating NiFeOx oxygen extraction cocatalyst, under AM 1.5G illumination, the photocurrent density at 1.23 V on reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) increased to 4.2 mA cm−2 and the incident photon-current conversion efficiency reached 70%. A PV-PEC system was designed to efficiently harness sunlight by integrating the photoanode with a solar photovoltaic panel. Upon connection with the solar photovoltaic panel (with an efficiency of only 7%), spontaneous water decomposition could be achieved, resulting in a solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency (ηSTH) of 4.2% for the series system. This study contributes to the realization of cost-effective and highly efficient PV-PEC hydrogen production.

Wind loads on rooftop solar photovoltaic panels oriented with varying azimuth angles: A comprehensive wind tunnel analysis

Effects of azimuth angles α, tilt angle β, parapet height ratio Hp/Hs, and building corner modification were examined. The modules at the roof corner were subjected to unfavorable wind loads in a normal setting without α. In contrast, the unfavorable loads occurred on modules at the center of panel row close to the approaching flow for a none-zero α. The wind directions associated with the largest most critical C͝fm were 45°, 45°, 30°, and 0° at α = 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, respectively. The largest most critical mean and negative peak module force coefficients denoted by C‾fm and C͝fm increased as α increased. The largest most critical C͝fm at α = 45° was 19.1%, 12.5%, and 11.9% larger than those at α = 0°, 15°, and 30°, respectively. The more pronounced flow disturbance at larger α would induce larger RMS values of velocities around modules. The larger RMS values of velocities might induce larger C͝fm on modules at larger α. Both the parapet and corner modification were effective aerodynamic approaches to reduce wind loads. The effect of corner modification on wind loads depended on α. The largest most critical negative C‾fm and C͝fm decreased linearly with Hp/Hs for various α.

The Impact of Installation Angle on the Wind Load of Solar Photovoltaic Panels

In order to explore the wind load characteristics acting on solar photovoltaic panels under extreme severe weather conditions, based on the Shear Stress Transport (SST) κ-ω turbulence model, numerical calculations of three-dimensional incompressible viscous steady flow were performed for four installation angles and two extreme wind directions of the solar photovoltaic panels. The wind load characteristics on both sides of the photovoltaic panels were obtained, and the vortex structure characteristics were analyzed using the Q criterion. The results indicate that, under different installation angles, the windward side pressure of the solar photovoltaic panel is generally higher than the leeward side. The leeward side is prone to forming larger vortices, increasing the fatigue and damage risk of the material, which significantly impacts the solar photovoltaic panel. As the installation angle increases, the windward side pressure of the solar photovoltaic panel also gradually increases. Therefore, optimal installation methods include installing the panel facing the wind at angles of 30° and 45°, or installing it facing away from the wind at a 60° angle, to minimize the impact of wind load on the solar photovoltaic panel.

Spray-on steady-state study of multi-rotor cleaning unmanned aerial vehicle in operation of photovoltaic power station

By 2024, the photovoltaic industry will have solidified its position as a strategic emerging industry in China. Photovoltaic power stations are deploying solar photovoltaic panels extensively, necessitating the utmost maintenance of their cleanliness and the implementation of dust removal measures in these areas. This is crucial in minimizing the loss of light energy conversion, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the solar energy system. Through the experimental methods of dynamic and static spraying cleaning, as well as numerical simulations based on the internal and external flow fields of spraying, the impacts of the dynamic and static behaviors, flight height, mission speed, and spraying flow rate of the multi-rotor cleaning drone on cleaning effectiveness are studied. The results indicate that the jet model of the external flow field of the drone has an incoming flow velocity of 4 m/s and a spraying flow rate of 1.7 L/min. The spraying model with a maximum pressure of 82.717 Pa in the internal flow field demonstrates stable fluid behavior and achieves a good level of spraying stability. The validation of dynamic and static spraying experiments confirmed that the optimal recommended height for accurate spraying and cleaning using the drone system is 3.0 m. The dynamic tests demonstrated that the lower height of 3.0 m also provides the most suitable spraying path, reaching 2.2 m at a speed of 0.5 m/s.Operation behaviour was assessed under three different situations ，an area of approximately 2095.2 m2 of photovoltaic panels on the Gobi Desert, 375 m2 of photovoltaic panels modules on the water surface and 875 m2 of photovoltaic panels on the roof of the multifunctional plant.Compare the spray cleaning of above areas with other forms of cleaning, this technique looks very competitive, such as manual operations.

Enhancing photovoltaic operation system efficiency and cost-effectiveness through optimal control of thermoelectric cooling

Solar energy has experienced a surge in utilization, primarily through the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, tapping into its abundant renewable potential. Efficiently cooling the operational surfaces of these PV panels is paramount for optimizing their performance and extending their lifespan. Cooling not only boosts electrical efficiency but also mitigates cell degradation. Temperature plays a crucial role in panel efficiency, particularly when temperatures exceed 25 °C, highlighting the need for effective cooling methods. Previous research has struggled to optimize control without relying on traditional cooling mediums. One promising approach involves attaching thermoelectric coolers (TECs) to the rear of PV panels, effectively reducing surface temperatures. To evaluate the economic viability of this approach, a comparative analysis is conducted between conventional systems and PV-TEC hybrid systems. A mathematical model describing the cooling process of PV modules is formulated, and simulations are carried out using MATLAB and the SCIP (Solving Constrained Integer Programs) in OPTI toolbox. The outcomes illustrate that precise control of TECs can increase the electrical output power efficiency of PV modules by 9.27 % while efficiently regulating surface temperatures. Furthermore, life cycle cost comparisons reveal that the hybrid system may be more cost-effective, boasting a 10.56 % cost saving over a 20-year project lifespan. A break-even point analysis indicates that the proposed system may break even in 6.5 years, demonstrating its potential for long-term economic benefits. This research underscores the significance of thermoelectric cooling in enhancing both performance and economic viability in solar PV systems.

Experimental Measurement of Fixed-Tilt Solar Panel and Vertical-Tilted Single-Axis Solar Tracker (VTSAT) Real-Time Solar Panel Output Power”

Renewable solar energy is becoming more and more vital, and photovoltaic (PV) solar panel efficiency optimization is essential for sustainable energy generation. This study describes an experiment that uses a solar panel multimeter to measure the output power of a fixed-tilt solar panel and a vertical-tilted single-axis solar tracker (VTSAT) in real time. This measurement indicates that solar panel performance varies with several external factors, including temperature fluctuations. Perform a comparison analysis in this study between a vertical-tilted single-axis solar tracker (VTSAT) and a traditional fixed-tilt solar panel. Two 50-watt solar panels' output data were measured using a solar panel multimeter. Utilizing this comparison analysis, assess these panels' real-world performance. Determining the individual efficiency of the two solar panels will be made easier by analyzing the output figures. Moreover, the goal is to compute the daily energy production produced by every kind of solar panel under standard climatic conditions.

Nonlinear Matlab/Simulink-Based Mathematical Modeling of Solar Photovoltaic Modules for Power Generation

Solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays comprised of modules are the most important power conversion elements of solar PV-generating systems. Because of the nonlinear characteristics of the solar PV array, determining its operating curves under various operating conditions is a laborious and expensive process. To overcome these barriers, engineers have updated multiple engineering software platforms, including Matlab and Simulink, to incorporate standardized and simplified solar panel designs. Nevertheless, these models are unsuitable for implementation in hybrid energy systems due to their intuitive nature and the need to manually adjust specific system parameters. Consequently, this article outlines a systematic process for simulating photovoltaic cells, modules, and arrays utilizing Matlab and Simulink. The reference model utilised is a 100-watt solar panel. Additionally, the operational characteristics of PV arrays under a broad spectrum of physical parameters and operating conditions are investigated. The simulation investigation is conducted for three distinct weather scenario conditions: cloudless days, days with moderate clouds, and days with heavy overcast conditions. When solar irradiation falls from 1 KW/m2 to 100 W/m2, the resulting voltage, current, and output power all decrease. The output power and voltage increase slightly as the temperature decreases, but the output current from solar PV panels remains approximately constant. The I-V and P-V curves of the solar photovoltaic module are significantly influenced when the shunt resistance changes from 1000 Ω to 0.1 Ω, resulting in a noticeable decrease in power output.

Numerical modelling of an effective perovskite solar cell and PV-module for comparison analysis of organic and inorganic electron transport layers

The demand for energy has increased over the past few decades due to both the industrial sector's rapid development and the world's population growth. As we know, the main source of energy consists primarily of fossil fuels, which are expected to be exhausted very soon. Researchers were therefore urged to locate an alternative source of energy that may substitute for fossil fuels in order to meet the world's growing energy needs. Substitute energy sources, like renewable energy, can be used to reduce reliance on conventional energy. As its irradiance may produce electricity when struck by photovoltaic solar (PV) panels, one of the increasingly prevalent types of energy is solar energy. With the help of capacitance simulator software for solar cells (SCAPS-1D), a thorough study of comparison analysis for the design of more efficient, inexpensive, and non-toxic Ni/Cu2O/MASnI3/PCBM/FTO and Ni/Cu2O/MASnI3/WO3/FTO module configurations of solar cells was carried out, and the PVsyst photovoltaic software package investigated the dependence of solar panels on temperature and irradiation. In order to investigate how altering the electron transport layer (ETL) affects conversion efficiency, this work offers a perovskite solar cell simulation with both organic and inorganic ETLs. The absorber layer of perovskite and the HTL (hole transport layer) are maintained uniformly across all ETL configurations. This particular research takes into account the CH3NH3SnI3 absorber layer with Cu2O as HTL. In order to determine which cell combination has the maximum conversion efficiency, we examine the outcomes of both cell combinations. The SCAPS-1D software is used for all simulation work. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) for organic ETL was found to be 28.79%., in addition to a number of electrical parameters like short-circuit current density (Jsc) of 33.42 mA/cm2, open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.032 V, and fill factor (FF) of 83.43%. For inorganic ETL, PCE was 29.54%, Jsc was 34.28 mA/cm2, Voc was 1.033, and fill factor was 83.34%. The optimised layer thickness of HTL was 0.2 µm, for ETL it was 0.02 µm, and the CH3NH3SnI3 absorber layer was 0.8 µm. For a solar module with 72 cells with dimensions of 2.2×1.1 m, the results obtained from the simulation of electrical parameters derived from SCAPS-1D were configured in the PVsyst software package for panel performance.

Mitigation of land-related impacts of solar deployment in the European Union through land planning policies

Solar power is space-intensive and will contribute to intensify land competition, a factor typically not captured by models. This study uses the Integrated Assessment Model WILIAM which explicitly represents the land use changes driven by solar energy expansion through a hard link of its energy and land modules including net energy restrictions. A Green Growth type transition is simulated for the European Union with a high renewable energy share target in electricity mix by 2050, testing different land use planning policies.The results show that a rapid deployment of solar power in land without land policies can intensify land use conflicts and increase associated land use change emissions. Land-use requirements for solar would be 1–1.4 % of total land (corresponding to 55–75 % of urban land), which could be problematic locally. The implementation of land-use protection and land siting policies could reduce 23 % of total land occupied bv solar photovoltaics panels (with respect to forest and cropland the area occupied could be reduced up to 88 %), and 23–47 % of the land use change associated emissions with respect to a scenario where not policies are applied. These results show the importance of integrating land use and energy planning policies to alleviate the undesired impacts.

Smart Home Powered by Solar: IoT-based SEPIC Converter Control

Background: In this article, an IOT solution for managing and controlling a PV system with applications for the home is presented. A DC-DC SEPIC converter, a bidirectional converter, a PWM generator, and a single-phase voltage source inverter with active clamping are used for power conditioning. An output voltage control loop is implemented, and real-time online communication with an internet server is accomplished using the PIC microcontroller. Methods: The ESP8266MOD WIFI IOT module works with the Blynk mobile app. Experimental findings showing the proper operation of IOT features demonstrate the effectiveness of voltage regulation. In this article, frequency is taken into consideration as solar power is integrated with the grid. A user may easily control the DC-DC converter, load batteries, and monitor battery voltage through our userfriendly GUI interface. Results: In this paper, an IOT (Internet of Things) application was used to control and track the output of a modest PV power plant. The study shows the efficiency of the digitally controlled system developed to regulate the output voltage of the SEPIC DC-DC converter. Practical Significance: They further argue that the ESP8266 and microcontroller's versatility make them an appropriate instrument for remote and real-time monitoring and control of the proposed model from around the world. The energy that is produced by the sun is added to the grid so that it may be put to effective use and contribute to satisfying the rising demand for energy. Solar energy is the input that SEPIC uses to charge the batteries and for all of its other processes. In the event that solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are not available, the SEPIC DC-DC converter will derive its energy from AC power. Conclusion: In this article, an IOT (Internet of Things) application was used to control and track the output of a modest PV power plant. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of the digitally controlled system created to manage the output voltage of the SEPIC DC-DC converter. They further argue that the ESP8266 and microcontroller's versatility make them an appropriate instrument for allowing remote and real-time monitoring and control of the proposed model from any part of the world. The energy that is produced by the sun is added to the grid so that it may be put to effective use and contribute to satisfying the rising demand for energy. Solar energy is the input that SEPIC uses to charge the batteries and for all of its other processes. In the event that solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are not available, the SEPIC DC-DC converter will derive its energy from AC power.

Solar photothermal self-deicing composite films based on fluorinated polyimide and phosphorene nanoflakes for passive anti-icing of photovoltaic panels

Snow and ice coverage greatly deteriorates the power output of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells due to sunlight obstruction and thus makes a great impact on their electricity generation. To address this problem, we design a type of passive self-deicing composite films based on colorless fluorinated polyimide as a polymeric matrix and phosphorene (PR) nanoflakes as a light absorber for the photothermal deicing of PV panels driven by solar energy. The composite films were successfully fabricated through in situ polycondensation, followed by temperature-programmed thermal imidization. The resultant composite films exhibit a colorless transparent feature along with high transmittance and high absorptivity. The presence of PR nanoflakes enhances the absorption of solar light and conversion of photothermal energy by the composite films, resulting in good photothermal self-deicing effectiveness for solar PV panels. There is an accelerated melting process occurring in the ice covering on the surface of the composite films under solar illumination. The composite film containing 2.0 wt % PR nanoflakes exhibits an optimal photothermal self-deicing performance under a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 92.9 %. The use of this composite film can promote a rapid recovery of the output voltage to an ideal value for the snow- or ice-covered PV panels through fast photothermal self-deicing. This study provides a novel approach for the development of passive self-deicing materials to enhance the power output and electricity generation efficiency of solar PV panels in the snowy and icy weather.

Innovative cooling technique to improve the performance of photovoltaic panels

The working performance of solar photovoltaic panels is affected by several factors. Accumulated dust and elevated temperatures from higher solar irradiance are the main factors. Therefore, a novel dual-cooling approach was employed, and its effect on the solar photovoltaic panels’ performance was investigated. The working front and backside temperatures, output power, and efficiency of the cooled solar photovoltaic panel were evaluated and compared. The results revealed that the current cooling process reduced the front and backside temperatures of the module by 22–45% and 34–47%, respectively, as compared with the dusty solar photovoltaic module. In the cooled photovoltaic module, the output current was higher by 26–48% and 4–5% compared with dusty and controlled modules, respectively, while the output voltage was found to be higher by 8–10% compared with the controlled and dusty modules. This led to a rise in output power for the cooled photovoltaic module by 22–51% and 8–13% compared to dusty and controlled modules throughout the day. In addition, the presence of dust on the photovoltaic module significantly reduces the overall efficiency to 11% compared to 17% when applying the cooling process. The levelized cost of electricity from the current cooled system was lower by 38.5% and 8% than in the dusty and uncooled systems, respectively. This means the proposed cooling system is efficient from an economic point of view. The results showed the distinct importance of the current dual-cooling process to avoid photovoltaic module degradation by accumulated dust and elevated temperatures.

Advancing solar PV panel power prediction: A comparative machine learning approach in fluctuating environmental conditions

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels play a crucial role in sustainable energy generation, yet their power output often faces uncertainties due to dynamic weather conditions. In this study, a comparative machine learning approach is introduced, utilizing multivariate regression (MR), support vector machine regression (SVMR), and Gaussian regression (GR) techniques for precise solar PV panel power prediction. The investigation into the impact of environmental factors—solar radiation, ambient temperature, and relative humidity—on PV panel output reveals the superior predictive capabilities of SVMR models. With a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.038, a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.17, and an R2 value of 0.99, SVMR outperforms GR and MR models. Conversely, Gaussian regression demonstrates comparatively weaker performance, yielding an R2 of 0.88, an MSE of 0.49, and an MAE of 0.63.This research underscores the reliability and enhanced accuracy of the proposed SVMR model in forecasting solar PV panel output. The outcomes presented herein carry significant implications for promoting the widespread adoption of PV panels in electricity generation, particularly in challenging environmental conditions. The findings offer valuable insights into optimizing solar PV deployment, ultimately contributing to the expansion of solar power generation in the national energy landscape. Moreover, the comparative analysis provides insights into how anticipated PV power generation can adapt to varying weather conditions, encompassing factors such as temperature, humidity, and solar radiation.

Effects of climatic conditions of Al Seeb in Oman on the performance of solar photovoltaic panels

Human activities and climatic elements, including temperature, humidity, and wind speed, have an impact on natural dust deposition. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of wind speed, relative humidity, and ambient temperature on the performance of soiled photovoltaic panels in Al Seeb, Oman. The study was conducted by exposing the solar PV panels to outdoor sunlight for a duration of two months. Parameters such as solar radiation, voltage, current, solar panel temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, and ambient temperature were collected in a short time interval. It was observed that the dust densities of 20.7 g/m2, 27 g/m2, and 41.3 g/m2 resulted in electrical power reductions of 18 %, 33 %, and 40 % for the panels uncleaned for one week, two weeks, and three weeks, respectively. The effect of daily dust resulted in an energy reduction of 14 %. Moreover, dust deposition decreases when the wind speed increases, resulting in a higher power output and vice versa. The higher the humidity, the stronger the dust's adhesion to the surface, resulting in more deposition and reduced power output. The maximum power output of 82.3 W was achieved at the wind speed of 10 m/s, 34.9 % relative humidity, and ambient temperature of 38.5 °C.

Solar Power Generation System at Household Scale

Solar power plants are renewable energy systems that utilize sunlight as a power source to generate electricity. The conversion of light energy into electrical energy is achieved through the photovoltaic effect. The process of converting solar energy into electrical energy is made possible by photovoltaic solar panels, which convert solar light energy into electricity. This technology began to be widely known and began to be widely used. Its use is widespread, ranging from large factories, office buildings, commercial buildings, shopping centers, hospitals, hotels, and households The purpose of this study is to know and analyze household-scale solar power generation systems. The method used in this study is a literature review, data used in the form of articles in electronic databases such as Google Scholar, in the period 2006 to 2023. The results showed that solar power plants (PLTS) are the right choice to overcome the energy crisis in Indonesia. Solar Power Plant Energy (PLTS) is abundant sunlight. Solar Power Plant System (PLTS) at the household level using Solar Home System (SHS) which is increasingly adopted in Indonesia (especially in households). The implication in this study is to provide a deeper understanding of household-scale solar systems, including the associated advantages and challenges. This can help individuals, institutions, and governments make better decisions regarding the use of renewable energy.

Energy efficiency in architecture: Strategies and technologies

Energy efficiency in architecture is a critical consideration in the design and construction of buildings, aiming to reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact. This abstract explores various strategies and technologies that can be implemented to enhance energy efficiency in architecture. The importance of energy efficiency in architecture lies in its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and create healthier indoor environments. Achieving energy efficiency in architecture involves a combination of passive design strategies, such as orientation, shading, and natural ventilation, as well as active technologies, including high-performance insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and renewable energy systems. Passive design strategies are fundamental to energy-efficient architecture, utilizing the natural elements of sunlight, shade, and airflow to minimize the need for mechanical heating, cooling, and lighting. Proper building orientation, effective shading devices, and strategic placement of windows and openings can maximize natural light and ventilation, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation systems. In addition to passive design strategies, active technologies play a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency in architecture. High-performance insulation materials, such as aerogel and vacuum insulation panels, can significantly reduce heat loss and gain through building envelopes, improving thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption. Energy-efficient lighting systems, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and daylight harvesting systems, can reduce electricity usage for lighting, while renewable energy systems, such as solar photovoltaic panels and wind turbines, can generate clean energy on-site, further reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Overall, energy efficiency in architecture requires a holistic approach that considers both passive design strategies and active technologies. By incorporating these strategies and technologies into building design and construction, architects and designers can create buildings that are not only environmentally sustainable but also comfortable, healthy, and cost-effective for occupants.

Analogical environmental cost assessment of silicon flows used in solar panels by the US and China

Achieving carbon neutrality requires deployment of large-scale renewable energy technologies like solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Nevertheless, methods to ascertain the overall environmental impacts PVs and further improve their sustainability are under-investigated. In an effort to provide more understanding of this crucial topic, this research focuses on silicon flows—a key element for manufacturing crystalline silicon PVs. Using system dynamics modeling, we conduct a comprehensive environmental cost assessment of the silicon flows used in PVs based on a comparative analysis between the United States and China as the leading global PV manufacturers. Despite the advancement in wafer quality, material usage reductions and overall price decreases achieved in recent decades, our results project a substantial increase in energy and water consumption in China related to Metallurgical Grade Si (MG-Si), Solar Grade Si (SoG-Si) and cell manufacturing by 2030. An approximate 6.5 times increase of energy and water consumption is observed for c-Si cell manufacturing in China between 2010 and 2020. In 2030, increases of 70% in energy consumption and 69% in water use are estimated for Chinese MG-Si and SoG-Si production. The most significant environmental impact is observed in silicon cell and module manufacturing in both countries, particularly concerning GHG, SOx and NOx emissions. This study provides valuable insights into the environmental impacts of these two major solar panel manufacturing countries by examining the silicon life cycle, from production to end-of-life.

ASSESSMENT OF SOLAR PV OUTPUT PERFORMANCE WITH VARYING TILT ANGLES AND WEATHER DATA FROM ERA5: CASE OF MUNTINLUPA CITY, PHILIPPINES

Abstract. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has been gaining popularity in the Philippines as an alternative source of sustainable energy. In such technology, module tilt angle and weather conditions are among the system parameters that have substantial impacts on PV system performance. Previous studies have considered either tilt angles or weather conditions, but not the combined impact of these two parameters on solar PV power output. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of weather variables and tilt angle on the output of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Muntinlupa City, the Philippines. Three 120W monocrystalline solar PV panels were used and set up to three different tilt angles (i.e., 5°, 10°, and 15°). The fifth generation of the ECMWF's global climate and weather reanalysis (ERA5) dataset was used to gather hourly weather information such as surface solar radiation, wind speed, wind direction, relative humidity, ambient temperature, and total precipitation. Three principal components (PC), which together account for 95% of the variability, were identified using principal components analysis (PCA), which was used to address multicollinearity among the weather parameters. To assess the effects of tilt angle, time, and PCs on solar PV production, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was carried out. Results show that all weather variables, except for wind speed and total precipitation, have a significant impact on solar PV production with configuration producing the best results. Moreover, a significant difference in mean solar PV production was observed among the three tilt angles. From 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM, solar PV output gradually increases and declines thereafter. Outputs this study can help in optimizing the design and configuration of solar PV systems in the Philippines by considering weather variables and module tilt angle. Lastly, this study provides useful information for system designers, installers, and policymakers in improving energy generation and utilization, encouraging the use of renewable energy sources, and advancing sustainable energy objectives.