Bifacial Solar Tracker Angle Control for Rear Irradiation Gain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for optimizing bifacial solar panel energy production on trackers fail to effectively maximize energy generation from both sides of the panel while minimizing shadow and inaccuracies in measurement-based tracking systems, especially on uneven terrains and varied albedo surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates the optimal angle for bifacial solar trackers by quantifying irradiation variations on both front and rear sides, considering terrain slopes, solar angle, ground albedo, tracker geometry, and module layout, using ray tracing techniques to simulate rear irradiation and adjust tracker positions for maximum energy production without relying on electrical measurements or machine learning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If bifacial modules are tilted at higher angles to maximize rear-side power generation, then energy production from the rear face increases, but shadow on the ground increases which reduces reflected irradiation reaching the rear of the module
Solution Approach 1:
The invention dynamically changes the tilt angle parameter of bifacial modules based on real-time measurements of reflected irradiation and direct sunlight. By continuously adjusting this single parameter, the system optimizes the balance between capturing reflected light from the ground and maintaining adequate shadow coverage, thereby maximizing total energy production from both front and rear faces of the modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism using sensors to measure reflected irradiation levels and direct sunlight intensity. These measurements are fed back to the control system, which automatically adjusts the module tilt angle to maintain optimal conditions. This closed-loop control ensures the system adapts to changing environmental conditions throughout the day and across different weather scenarios.
2Productivity
If measurement-based tracking methods are used to optimize bifacial panel positioning, then energy capture can be improved, but inaccuracies in measurements and rapid changes in irradiation conditions cause unstable behaviors
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies beforehand cushioning by implementing filtering and smoothing algorithms on the raw sensor measurements before they are used for control decisions. This preprocessing step cushions the system against measurement noise and rapid transient changes in irradiation conditions, preventing unstable tracking behaviors while preserving the ability to respond to genuine optimization opportunities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances energy production by up to 5% compared to monofacial systems, maintains reliability across varying weather and soil conditions, and avoids inaccuracies associated with measurement-based methods, ensuring consistent optimal performance without a learning period.
Implementation Method 1
Bifacial modules produce solar power from both sides of the panel
Implementation Method 2
When bifacial modules are installed on a highly reflective surface (like a white TPO roof or on the ground with lightcoloured stones), some bifacial module manufacturers claim up to a 30% increase in production just from the extra power generated from the rear
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to electric solar trackers moving solar panels and being controlled by a solar tracker controller. accounting for an estimation of the angle of positioning of the bifacial PV modules on a solar single axis tracker, in which the electrical energy produced is maximized by means of a process that quantifies the variation of irradiation on both the front and rear faces depending on the orientation angle of the module for each solar angle, and then the optimal position for the production of electrical energy is decided of all the solar trackers of the plant. The production of electrical energy can be further optimized by including an albedo modifying arrangement. An arrangement for enhancing energy production in bifacial solar panel modules having a front side and a rear side is also provided herein.