Evolution of space solar cells

✍ Scribed by P.A. Iles

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 2002
• Weight: 162 KB
• Volume: 43
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0140-6701
• DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6701(02)86352-4

✦ Synopsis

Excess electricity is utilized to produce hydrogen for storage through electrolysis of water. At the solar down time, the stored hydrogen can be used to produce high-quality steam in an aphodid burner to operate a turbine and with a field modulated generator to supplement electric power. Case studies are carried out on the optimum configuration of the hybrid system satisfying the energy demand. A numerical example based on the actual measured solar input is also included to demonstrate the design potential.

02/02075 Calculation of the PV modules angular losses under field conditions by means of an analytical model

Martin, N. and Ruiz, J. M. Solar Energy Materials & Solar Cells, 2001, 70, (l), 25-38. Photovoltaic (PV) modules in real operation present angular losses in reference to their behaviour in standard test conditions, due to the angle of incidence of the incident radiation and the surface soil. Although these losses are not always negligible, they are commonly not taken into account when correcting the electrical characteristics of the PV module or estimating the energy production of PV systems. The main reason of this approximation is the lack of easy-to-use mathematical expressions for the angular losses calculation, This paper analyses these losses on PV modules and present an analytical model based on theoretical and experimental results. The proposed model fits monocrystalline as well as polycrystalline and amorphous silicon PV modules, and contemplates the existence of superficial dust. With it angular losses integrated over time periods of interest can be easily calculated. Monthly and annual losses have been calculated for 10 different European sites, having diverse climates and latitudes (ranging from 32 to 52°), and considering different module tilt angles.