Model for estimating the energy yield of a high concentrator photovoltaic system

• Published in: Energy (Oxford) Vol. 87; pp. 77 - 85
• Main Authors: Fernández, Eduardo F., Pérez-Higueras, P., Almonacid, F., Ruiz-Arias, J.A., Rodrigo, P., Fernandez, J.I., Luque-Heredia, I.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.07.2015
• Subjects: Balancing; Computational efficiency; Concentrators; Deviation; Energy yield; HCPV systems; Mathematical models; Modelling; Outdoor characterization; Photovoltaic cells; Solar cells; Spain, Andalucia, Jaen; Modelling; Outdoor characterization; HCPV systems; Energy yield
• ISSN: 0360-5442
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2015.04.095

The prediction of the energy yield of HCPV (high concentrator photovoltaic) systems is crucial to evaluate the potential and promote the market expansion of HCPV technology. Currently, there is a lack of experience in the modelling of these kinds of systems due to the special features of such technology. In this work, a practical model based on simple mathematical expressions and atmospheric parameters is introduced. The proposed model takes into account the main important parameters which influence the output of a HCPV system such as cell temperature, spectrum and efficiency of the inverter and other losses of the BOS (balance of system). The results obtained are validated using the data of a HCPV installation located at the University of Jaen in southern Spain and monitored daily every minute since 2011. The model accurately predicts the monthly energy yield with a deviation ranging from 4.07% to −0.47% and the annual final energy yield with a deviation of 0.9%. •The prediction of the energy output of HCPV systems is a crucial task.•A new model based on simple mathematical relationships is introduced.•The procedure is validated using the measured data of a typical HCPV system.•The analysis of results demonstrates the high quality of the methodology.