Structural optimization and performance testing of concentrated photovoltaic panels for pavement

Solar pavement can convert sunlight shining on the pavement surface into clean electricity through photovoltaic panels, thereby transforming the energy structure of road transportation. In order to balance the light transmittance and anti-skid resistance of the solar pavement surface, this study proposed a concentrated photovoltaic panel (CPP) structure for pavement. The panel structure was optimized, and a laboratory model was developed. The mechanical properties and durability of the panel were tested by the multi-functional material test system (MTS) and the model mobile load simulator 3 (MMLS3). Furthermore, the electrical performance was evaluated by an outdoor test, followed by an economic evaluation. The results show that the optimal structural dimensions of the CPP for pavement are 540 mm long × 540 mm in length × 144.62 mm in thickness. The maximum flexural tensile strength of its anti-skid concentrated panel is 61.67 MPa, satisfying the requirements of the traffic load. After 1.35 million cycles of loading, the surface of the anti-skid concentrated panel is free of cracks and deformation and has no obvious wear, exhibiting good transmittance durability and excellent wear resistance. In addition, the overall structure of the panel counteracts the light loss effect of the material and improves the light concentration performance, providing a gain effect on the power generation of the panel, especially in the case of high irradiance. The return on investment (ROI) of CPP for pavement is 54.42%, with cost recovery in 9.87 years. The levelized cost of energy is 0.67 CNY/kWh, indicating significant economic benefits. At the same time, 1539.3 kg/m2 of CO2 emissions can be avoided during the operation cycle, and the environmental benefits are also considerable. This study can provide a reference for the promotion and application of photovoltaic power generation technology in road engineering.