Performance evaluation of bifacial photovoltaic modules for urban application

Performance evaluation of bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules for urban application has been carried out. Simulation is performed by the computer program, PVFORM, with METPV. Hourly and monthly power generation properties are calculated at various azimuths. Outdoor measurements are carried out as quasi-bifacial modules by combining two monofacial PV modules. Additionally, albedo effect on module performance is investigated. As a result, the annual amount of generated energy does not depend on azimuth. It is possible that the generated power of vertically installed bifacial modules is more than 80% of that generated by monofacial type installed on a south-inclined surface at the optimum tilt. Moreover, the surrounding environment has a great effect on the power output. It is possible to obtain higher power output than the monofacial modules by selecting an appropriate place for installation. Therefore, bifacial PV modules are more advantageous than the monofacial one for urban application.