Evaluating the real-world performance of vertically installed bifacial photovoltaic panels in residential settings: empirical findings and implications

This research examines the extended performance of vertically positioned bifacial photovoltaic (BiPV) panels in actual environmental settings, considering various factors such as solar irradiance and the random surrounding structures. Two bifacial photovoltaic panel systems connected to the grid are set up on the roof of a residential structure. The first system consisted of seven panels installed at a tilt angle of 27o, facing south. The second system comprises seven vertically installed panels facing west. A data acquisition system was employed to continuously monitor and record the electrical parameters of both systems. To quantify the performance of the systems, specific metric parameters, like the yearly energy output and the specific yield of the systems, are computed. The findings reveal that the vertically installed BiPV panels can achieve an energy yield as high as 100% compared with the tilted installation in certain months. Furthermore, the vertical installation demonstrated inherent anti-soiling properties akin to self-cleaning. Additionally, the vertical installation exhibited a multiple peak phenomenon, which could potentially alleviate the peak load issues on the electrical grid. The vertical installation also exhibited an exceptional ground coverage ratio, making it an attractive solution for space-constrained applications. The vertical installation exhibited a ~ 1678 kWh/kWp performance ratio, retaining ~82% of the tilted installation energy yield. The results underscore the feasibility and advantages of employing vertically installed bifacial photovoltaic panels in residential settings, particularly in limited areas. Moreover, the study provides insights into the viability and potential of this technology for small-scale residential applications.