Minimizing annual reflection loss in fixed-tilt photovoltaic modules using graded refractive index (GRIN) anti-reflective glass

• DOI: 10.1016/j.solener.2024.112424
• Publication Date: 2024-03-21T17:33:05Z
• Authors: Karinna Martin; Katie Shanks; Yipeng Liu; Jungtaek Kim; Sajad Haghanifar; Mehdi Zarei; Sooraj Sharma; Paul W. Leu
• Keywords: Reflection

This study evaluates the performance of graded refractive index (GRIN) anti-reflective (AR) structures on photovoltaic (PV) modules across twenty global locations and compares them with conventional thin film AR coatings bare glass. Optimized glass nanocones were chosen to represent GRIN structures. Electrodynamic simulations conducted assess reflection properties at multiple angles incidence. dramatically reduce total solar-integrated 0.2% normal incidence, compared 3.8% for 0.8% optimized coatings, maintained low a range incident angles, demonstrating only 0.7% 60 degrees significantly higher values other surfaces. Detailed hourly revealed that substantially annual loss just 0.86±0.19% increase expected energy output by up 11.15±1.00% optimal tilt angles. The benefits are more substantial sub-optimal panel orientations such as horizontal or vertical due its broad angle properties. These findings highlight potential technology approach theoretical limit where front surface is completely eliminated enhance solar power conversion efficiencies. Additionally, generalized model approximate various materials presented. research encourages further exploration into optimize efficiencies in PV modules.