Wind loading and its effects on photovoltaic modules: An experimental–Computational study to assess the stress on structures

Wittwer, Adrián Roberto; Podestá, Juan M.; Castro, Hugo G.; Mroginski, Javier L.; Marighetti, Jorge Omar; Bórtoli, Mario Eduardo De; Paz, Rodrigo R.; Mateo, Fernando

doi:10.1016/j.solener.2022.04.061

Cited by 17 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 25 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…Wind tunnel testing involves constructing a scaled model of the solar panel system and subjecting it to controlled wind conditions [18]. On the other hand, numerical simulations utilise computational models and algorithms to simulate wind flow and its interaction with the solar PV power system [19,20]. Both approaches complement each other, as the results obtained from the wind tunnel testing helps in the validation of the numerical approach.…”

Section: Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

Wind Flow and Its Interaction with a Mobile Solar PV System Mounted on a Trailer

Eslami Majd,

Adebayo,

Tchuenbou-Magaia

et al. 2024

Sustainability

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Efficient implementation of clean energy technologies is paramount, with mobile solar PV systems on trailers (MSPTs) emerging as pivotal solutions, particularly in regions with limited power grid access. This endeavour is vital for meeting escalating electricity demands and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), aimed at ensuring dependable and sustainable energy provision in developing countries. This study investigates the aerodynamic behaviour of a designed MSPT using numerical simulation and experimental methods, thereby offering optimization potential for MSPT design and enhancing overall performance and reliability. Specifically, the study focuses on the effects of wind velocity and tilt angles on the drag and lift forces, as well as drag and lift coefficients on the panel used in the MSPT system. The overall wind force on the entire MSPT, including nine large solar PV panels, is scrutinised, considering combined wind flow and system geometry effects. The numerical investigations were conducted using ANSYS-Fluent software (version 2022/R2) and experimental testing was performed within the C15-10 Wind Tunnel, utilizing scaled-down models to validate the accuracy of the simulation. The findings from the numerical investigations showed an increased turbulence caused by gaps between panels, resulting in almost 62% higher suction flow velocity and 22% higher suction pressure compared to a single panel. Drag and lift forces on the entire MSPT were approximately 6.7 and 7.8 times greater than those on a single panel with the same 30-degree tilt angle, respectively. The findings revealed that scaling forces on a single panel is insufficient for accurately predicting the aerodynamic forces on the entire MSPT. The insights and the knowledge from this study pave the way for further improvements in mobile solar PV technology.

show abstract

Section: Literature Reviewmentioning

confidence: 99%

Wind Flow and Its Interaction with a Mobile Solar PV System Mounted on a Trailer

Eslami Majd,

Adebayo,

Tchuenbou-Magaia

et al. 2024

Sustainability

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

show abstract

PVSails: Harnessing Innovation With Vertical Bifacial PV Modules in Floating Photovoltaic Systems

Tina,

Osama,

Cazzaniga

et al. 2024

Progress in Photovoltaics

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

In the context of offshore floating photovoltaic systems (FPVs), this paper explores the use of bifacial photovoltaic modules installed in the vertical position. The energy harvested from the rear face of vertically configured bifacial PV modules compensates for the reduced production at the front face of the module, and this demonstrates the potential of bifacial technology for offshore applications. By comparison, most existing horizontally tilted bifacial FPV systems gain only a small benefit in production from the rear face of the module due to the minimum radiation received, and what also must be taken into consideration is the negative effect of significant soiling owing to the low tilt angle of the PV modules. Hence, to overcome these drawbacks, we have developed the innovative “PVSail” concept, which explores the deployment of vertical FPV systems on floats, buoys, or poles/minipiles. Floating vertical bifacial PV systems (VBPVs) have huge potential to harness all the energy generation capabilities enhance by reflected light, especially from snow‐covered surfaces in northern regions. Our analysis considers a patented mooring and vertical PV system that allows the VBPV structure to align with the prevailing wind direction to shed wind loads, and our numerical analysis explores the potential of VBPV applied to Catania in Italy and Nigg Bay in the United Kingdom. Our analysis study has revealed that across an azimuth angle range (0°–180°), vertical bifacial modules experience roughly a 9% decrease in energy yield at Catania and about a 5% energy yield gain in higher latitude regions like Nigg Bay. Additionally, increasing the latitude of the installation location of VBPV reduces the energy yield sensitivity to the orientation, that is, azimuth angle. The PVSail concept opens the door to novel deployment possibilities in offshore renewable energy projects.

show abstract

Mechanical response of tensegrity-origami solar modules

Fraternali,

de Castro Motta,

Germano

et al. 2024

Applications in Engineering Science

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

Wind loading and its effects on photovoltaic modules: An experimental–Computational study to assess the stress on structures

Cited by 17 publications

References 25 publications

Wind Flow and Its Interaction with a Mobile Solar PV System Mounted on a Trailer

Wind Flow and Its Interaction with a Mobile Solar PV System Mounted on a Trailer

PVSails: Harnessing Innovation With Vertical Bifacial PV Modules in Floating Photovoltaic Systems

Mechanical response of tensegrity-origami solar modules

Contact Info

Product

Resources

About