Performance Evaluation of an Existing Renewable Energy System at Gilutongan Island, Cebu, Philippines

Abstract

Solar photovoltaics are considered the practical solution to energy access and climate change issues, especially in tropical countries that receive relatively more sunlight throughout the year. However, questions arise on the reliability of these systems in providing sufficient supply to meet the users’ electricity needs. This paper looks at the reliability of a solar project installed on two rooftops on an off-grid island in Cebu, Philippines, that provides increased electricity access to 11 households. PVSyst and HOMER Pro software analyzed solar PV systems performance and techno-economics. The simulations yielded the annual mean values of reference yield, array yield, final yield, array capture loss, system loss, performance ratio, and capacity factor are 5.66 kWh/m2/day, 3.51 kWh/kWp/day, 3.23 kWh/kWp/day, 2.15, 0.278, 57.10%, and 18.96%, respectively. The peak PV resource of 3.30 kWp/day can supply the 1.66 kWp/day of the consumer’s electrical demand. It was concluded that the current installation could supply the electrical load demand of the residents; however, consideration for the potential increase in demand must be in place. While renewable energy sources are relevant in achieving 100% electrification in rural communities, their ability to address the energy demands of the users must be carefully considered in planning and design.

Performance Analysis of a 50 MW Solar PV Installation at BUI Power Authority: A Comparative Study Between Sunny and Overcast Days

“…As shown in Figure 6, the performance ratio of the solar PV system during the sunniest days fluctuates between 76.9 to 92.3% while the performance ratio of the solar PV system for the overcast days is higher, ranging between 90.9 to 110.6%. A high-performance ratio indicates that the PV system efficiently converts available solar radiation to electrical energy [50]. According to [51], while a performance ratio (PR) exceeding 100% for a solar PV system seems illogical, it can happen in certain circumstances, especially on cloudy days due to the combined effects of diffuse light, cooler temperatures, and potential measurement anomalies.…”