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Three-dimensional shading models for estimating global radiation on photovoltaic module

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  • Jiang, Niu
  • Li, Fen
  • Tan, Minhui
  • Yu, Hao
  • Qu, Aifang
  • Feng, Honglei

Abstract

The method for estimating the global radiation on the inclined surface of the second row photovoltaic (PV) module based on the three-dimensional (3-D) shading model is presented. Initially, by dividing the shadows on the second row PV module oriented in arbitrary direction into triangular, rectangular, and trapezoidal sections, a method for calculating the direct radiation on the second row PV module at different orientations is obtained. Subsequently, the view factors to sky and ground of the second row PV module are derived by employing the geometric optical approach. The variations of the view factors to sky and ground with the tilt angle and the inter-row distance are analyzed, which enables the precise calculation of diffuse and reflected radiation. A detailed approach is developed for assessing the reflected radiation by considering the proportions of shadowed and illuminated areas on the ground between PV module rows. Consequently, a comprehensive model to compute global radiation on the second row PV module at arbitrary orientations, considering shadows and view factors, is presented. The study further delineates the effects of inter-row distance and tilt angle of the PV module on global radiation, providing crucial insights that can significantly improve PV system design and efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Jiang, Niu & Li, Fen & Tan, Minhui & Yu, Hao & Qu, Aifang & Feng, Honglei, 2025. "Three-dimensional shading models for estimating global radiation on photovoltaic module," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 242(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:242:y:2025:i:c:s0960148124024017
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.122333
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zhang, Shuo & Jiang, Wei & Wang, Teng & Zhang, Yufei & Yuan, Dongdong, 2026. "A comprehensive framework for the design and evaluation of photovoltaic self-sufficient energy systems in highway service areas," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PA).

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