Overview
Accurate performance modelling is crucial for optimising the efficiency and financial returns of photovoltaic (PV) systems. This article compares SolarPlus’s monofacial and bifacial system performance modelling with other software solutions, highlighting how advanced modelling techniques can lead to more precise energy yield predictions. Such accuracy is essential for system designers and investors aiming to maximise the benefits of both monofacial and bifacial PV installations.
Control System Specs
- Location: 47 Bourke Rd, Alexandria NSW 2015
- System size: 115 440W Modules (50.6kW)
- Roof type: Flat, white colorbond
- Albedo: 0.5 (Conservative value for white roof)
- Array azimuth: 37 degrees
- Array Tilt: 30 degrees on tilt leg
- Inter-row spacing: 1.33m (No shading on Winter Solstice)
- Ground clearance: 0.5m
- Inverter used: 2 x Sungrow SG20RT
- Monofacial panel: STP440S-C54/Nshm
- Bifacial panel: STP440S-C54/Nshtb+
Comparing Results
|
Software
|
Bifacial Model
|
Monofacial Monthly Production (kWh)
|
Bifacial Monthly Production (kWh)
|
Monofacial System Annual Production (kWh)
|
Bifacial System Annual Production (kWh)
|
Bifacial Gain Displayed
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
SolarPlus
|
TBD
|
|
|
73,607
|
78,959
|
7.27%
|
|
Pylon
|
None
|
|
|
73,000
|
73,000
|
0
|
|
None
|
Helioscope
|
-
|
-
|
70,683
|
70,683
|
0
|
|
Opensolar
|
TBD
|
|
|
73,177
|
74,285
|
1.51%
|
|
SAM
|
View Factor 2D
|
|
|
90,017
|
84,174
|
6.94%
|
|
SunSolve
|
Ray Tracing
|
-
|
-
|
88,150
|
91,150
|
3.4%
|
The testing clearly demonstrates that SolarPlus delivers more accurate and consistent performance predictions for both monofacial and bifacial PV systems when compared to other software tools. Its advanced modelling engine accounts for real-world conditions, including module orientation and irradiance angles, providing system designers with greater confidence in energy yield estimates. This level of precision supports better-informed decisions, optimised system designs, and improved financial outcomes for solar projects.
