bifacialVF - Bifacial PV View Factor model 2022 [SWR 17-58]

Abstract

bifacialvf is a self-contained view factor (or configuration factor) model which replicates a 5-row PV system of infinite extent perpendicular to the module rows. Single-axis tracking is supported, and hourly output files based on TMY inputs are saved. Spatial nonuniformity is reported, with multiple rear-facing irradiances collected on the back of each module row. Bilinear interpolation code add-on to bifacialvf (description below) to pre-generate IV arrays and bifacial coefficients, and to examine the energy production with back side irradiance mismatch for either a portrait or landscape module. Included are IV curves and bifacial info for a Yingli (standard) module. Based on the publication: "A Practical Irradiance Model for Bifacial PV Modules" B. Marion, S. MacAlpine, C. Deline, A. Asgharzadeh, F. Toor, D. Riley, J. Stein, C. Hansen 2017 IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference, Washington DC, 2017 URL: https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy17osti/67847.pdf