In the Condition Set of a project, there is the option to model cell temperature losses. This feature can help optimize energy output by adjusting thermal loss factors based on environmental conditions, module irradiance, and different racking types, such as Carports, East-West, Flush Mount, and Fixed Tilt. These choices subsequently influence cell temperature and overall efficiency.
There are two models available: the Sandia Temperature Model, which is derived from field-observed module performance, and the diffusion model, which is the same as that used in PVSyst. Losses can be adjusted based on the available temperature parameters.
Sandia Model
- Constant Thermal Loss Factor: The amount of thermal energy a cell can dissipate into the environment
- Wind Thermal Loss Factor: The additional thermal energy a cell can dissipate into the environment as wind speed increases
- Difference between module and cell temperature: The temperature gap between the back of the module and the PV cell
Diffusion Model
- Constant Thermal Loss Factor: Thermal loss due to the difference between the cell temperature and the ambient temperature of the PV modules
- Variable Thermal Loss Factor: Thermal loss due to wind dissipating the heat of the PV module