EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF BIFACIAL PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE PERFORMANCE UNDER REAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

An experimental study of the efficiency of bifacial photovoltaic modules was conducted in the climatic conditions of the Fergana Valley, characterized by high levels of solar insolation and moderate surface albedo. The aim of the study was to quantify the increase in electricity generation and determine the optimal panel tilt angle to improve the energy and economic efficiency of solar installations. Experimental measurements were performed on a SolarSpace SS8-72HD-585N bifacial module at installation angles of 30°, 35°, 40°, and 45°, in three operating modes: single-sided, double-sided, and with an insulated rear side. The results showed that at optimal angles of 30–40°, bifacial panels provide a 10–13% increase in daily energy generation compared to traditional single-sided modules. Increasing the tilt angle above 45° was found to reduce the proportion of reflected radiation and diminish the bifacial effect. A redistribution of the panel's thermal balance was also recorded: the temperature of the front surface in double-sided mode is 2–4 °C lower than that of monopanels, which contributes to the stabilization of operating efficiency. The obtained results confirm the high efficiency and feasibility of using bifacial systems in Uzbekistan's sunny climate. The experimental data developed can be used to refine energy efficiency models and design solar power plants, thereby reducing the lowest cost of electricity (LCOE) and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7 and SDG 13) in renewable energy.