A methodology for prediction and assessment of shading on PV systems

Frequently, PV systems are affected by dirt, dust or shadowing from surrounding elements, such as trees and buildings. The shadows can cause partial shading conditions, when the irradiance is not uniform on PV installation, which lead to losses of power. Thus, the shadow prediction is primordial for a better output power estimation and to minimize its losses. The aim of this article is to propose a methodology using intuitive and available tools for shading prediction and losses assessment on PV installations. A study about the shadow pattern and module orientation (portrait and landscape) influence and an analysis of the shading losses on a PV plant were performed in order to demonstrate the applicability of the methodology. The shading effect is drastic when the shading is parallel to the short edge, whereas the effect is lower when it is parallel to the long edge. On the other hand, the losses due to shading and the difference in the position of the modules (landscape or portrait) have a lower impact on the photovoltaic plant case. It was concluded that the methodology is feasible and applicable for shading impact evaluation, despite limitations for large systems due to the simulation time.

Automated summary

The study focuses on the impact of shading on PV systems caused by dirt, dust, and surrounding elements. A methodology for shading prediction and losses assessment was proposed, demonstrating the feasibility for evaluating shading impact despite limitations for large systems.