Journal of the Korean Solar Energy Society 한국태양에너지학회 논문집 ISSN:1598-6411(Print) 2508-3562(Online)

An arched photovoltaic (PV) system differs from a typical PV system structure because it features PV modules arranged in an arch, each with a varying installation angle. An arch structure is an installation method that ensures aesthetics in architectural structures, such as noise barriers, or in unused areas, such as agricultural canals. However, the varying installation angles may cause losses in power generation depending on the configuration of the PV strings. In this study, 3 kW arched PV systems were constructed to analyze power generation, and assess the resulting mismatch losses. After analyzing the power generation for approximately 16 months, the results demonstrated that an east-west oriented arched PV system exhibited higher power generation than a north-south oriented arched PV system. Simulations of the I-V curves using the actual measured irradiance values for various installation angles and measured maximum irradiance values confirmed the occurrence of mismatch losses owing to the installation angle.