Experimental study of photovoltaic panel mounting configurations for tube-shaped structures

Abstract

Traditionally, solar photovoltaic panels have been installed on the top of buildings and oriented in a specific direction based on latitude. In modern structures, photovoltaic panels are being installed on different parts of buildings, resulting in panels mounted at various angles. This work investigates various photovoltaic panel mounting configurations on tube-shaped structures intended for emerging high-speed transportation systems operating in the north-south direction. The photovoltaic panel cases are compared in terms of power profile, total energy capture, energy storage system capacity, and equipment cost. Results are based on experimental data taken in Ulsan, Korea. Analysis and results indicate that the photovoltaic mounting case with one panel on the top of the tube at 0° two adjacent panels at 45° and two subsequent panels on the side of the tube at 90° yields the highest energy per investment cost.