Simulation and experimental performance analysis of partially floating PV system in windy conditions

The floating solar photovoltaic system (FPVT) is a new concept for solar energy harvesting that contributes to growing energy demand but with higher performance compared to the land-based system (LBPV). The working temperature of an FPVT system is lower and the efficiency is better than that of an LBPV system. The current experimental study aims to further enhance the superiority of floating PV technology through an innovative partially floating (FPVWS) system for more energy harvest. The underwater portion allows reliable temperature management for the PV system via mutual heat transfer with the ambient water and consequently enhances the electricity production. Then an experimental floating set up has been constructed to examine the performance of the new FPVWS system under real windy conditions and the reason for such dominance was explained. The acquired data demonstrated that the working temperature of the FPVWS reduced by11.60%, the output power rose by about 20.28%, and the electrical efficiency rose by 32.82% at a 49% increment in wind speed. The performance of the FPVT module is improved with the submerging technique and the favorable northerlywesterly wind flow direction, which provided the most gain to its performance. The levelized cost of energy decreased by 17% along with a reduction in global average CO2 emissions of 69.51 kg CO2/summer season at a 49% increment in wind speed.

Automated summary

The floating solar photovoltaic system (FPVT) has higher performance and efficiency compared to land-based systems. Experimental studies aim to enhance this technology with innovative partially floating systems to improve energy harvesting. Through reliable temperature management and increased electricity production, the FPVT module's performance is improved with the submerging technique and favorable wind flow direction.