Empirical analysis of bifacial photovoltaic modules in high-latitude regions: Performance insights from a field laboratory in Norway

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive empirical analysis of bifacial photovoltaic (bPV) module performance in high-latitude regions, based on data collected from an outdoor field laboratory in Trondheim, Norway. It explores the operational dynamics of bPV systems under environmental challenges such as low irradiation, short daylight hours, low sun angles, and extreme weather conditions, all common in high-latitude regions. The study assesses the performance of various bPV configurations, including vertically oriented modules in east–west (E–W) and south–north (S–N) orientations, fixed south tilted orientations, and orientations equipped with a 2-axis tracking system. Key findings indicate the advantages of mixed orientations in bPV systems, resulting in multiple daily generation peaks that align more closely with consumption profiles. The study demonstrates that bPV modules exhibit a strong response to changes in irradiance than mono-facial modules, particularly to the diffused horizontal irradiance component. This effect is more observed in vertically oriented bPV modules. Yield analysis reveals that spring weather conditions favor PV performance in this region. Additionally, bPV modules show higher performance ratios than monofacial modules in various setups to a different extent, although snow-related reductions are more pronounced in tilted orientations. The results in this work contribute to the optimization of PV systems in regions where low sun angles and snow accumulation are prevalent, emphasizing the potential of vertically oriented bPV modules.