Numerical exploration and relational impact ranking of critical parameters in 3D PV module studies
Yassine El Alami, Elhadi Baghaz, Rehena Nasrin, Charaf Hajjaj, Mohammadi Benhmida, Khaled M. Al-Aribe, Adnan Ibrahim
Abstract
The performance of photovoltaic modules is susceptible to environmental conditions, which often leads to efficiency losses in real-world installations. It is therefore essential to develop accurate forecasting tools in order to better understand these effects and improve the reliability and sustainability of solar systems. In this study, a three-dimensional numerical model was developed and experimentally validated to accurately predict the temperature and performance of photovoltaic modules. This approach offers significant advantages over traditional models, providing a more realistic and comprehensive representation of module behavior under different conditions. The model was used to assess the influence of several factors, including ambient temperature, dust accumulation, wind speed, solar irradiance, and module tilt angle, on panel temperature, power generation, and efficiency. To quantify the relative impact of each of these parameters on module performance, the Grey Relational Analysis method was applied. Dust accumulation is the primary issue causing a significant decrease in temperature and power output compared to clean PV, primarily due to reduced glass transmission. For example, a 45 g/m² dust deposit decreases module temperature by 1.18 °C, reduces output power by 22.605 W, and reduces efficiency by 0.073 %. Furthermore, temperature decreases as dust, wind speed, and tilt angle increase, while it rises with irradiance and ambient temperature. Power and efficiency, on the other hand, follow an opposite trend, generally decreasing with dust accumulation, irradiance, and temperature, but improving with high wind speed and optimum tilt angle.