Operation of a photovoltaic installation in the North under various cloudiness conditions

This study investigates the effect produced by various types of cloudiness on the functioning of a photovoltaic system in the central part of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The electric power efficiency of the photovoltaic system under various cloudiness conditions was assessed using graphical interpretations, measuring and recording devices, as well as a description of the procedure for conducting experimental work. The average indicators of a decrease in the electric power efficiency of the photovoltaic system were determined using patterns for a certain type of cloudiness. A specific cloudiness type was identified by performing measurements and calculating illumination ranges, taking boundary conditions into account. These studies were carried out during the summer period of 2021 using the facilities of the mobile test site of the V.P. Larionov Institute of the Physical-Technical Problems of the North of Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences located in the central part of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). Control parameters of alterations in the generating capacity of the photovoltaic system were obtained for 10 types of cloudiness. The obtained parameters can be used when modeling operational processes and performing engineering calculations of the operating modes for solar power plants. According to the results, during the operation of photovoltaic systems under various types of cloudiness, the decrease in the generating capacity of the installation can vary within 8–95% relative to the generating capacity indicator under clear weather. The obtained indicators of alterations in the generating capacity of a photovoltaic system under various cloudiness conditions can be applied for developing a methodology for assessing the effect of cloudiness and its types on the carrying capacity of solar beams falling on the photovoltaic panel surface, as well as to more accurately determine the energy potential of solar generation in a certain area.

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