Extensive Energy, Exergy, Economic, Exergoeconomic, Enviroeconomic, and Energy Payback Time Analysis and Investigation on Bifacial Solar Photovoltaic Module with Nonbiodegradable Waste as Reflectors

Abstract

The ability of bifacial photovoltaic (PV) to absorb solar radiation on either side increases the energy output. Reflectors increase the albedo and help to increase the performance. Reflectors face discoloration and degradation with time and they increase the overall implementation cost of bifacial PV systems. However, the cost of reflectors can be reduced by using nonbiodegradable waste as reflectors. They also increase the reusability of nonbiodegradable waste materials and reduce their impact on the environment and the cost of reflectors. To make a comprehensive analysis, an investigative approach of energy, exergy, economic, exergoeconomic, enviroeconomic, and energy payback time (6E) analysis is conducted for the bifacial PV module with nonbiodegradable waste, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flex, polystyrene foam, and aluminum foil as reflectors in this study. The 6E analysis includes the analysis of energy, exergy, economic, exergoeconomic, enviroeconomic, and energy payback time factors. The analysis results indicate that the PVC flex as a reflector enhances the bifacial PV performance better compared to polystyrene foam and aluminum foil. The average power, average energy efficiency, and average exergy efficiency of bifacial PV with PVC flex reflector observed during the study are 224 W, 27%, and 31%, respectively. The use of nonbiodegradable waste also has a positive impact on the environment and economy.