Bifacial solar photovoltaic technology has accrued significant attention due to its potential for enhanced energy generation by capturing sunlight from both its front and rear sides. A recent groundbreaking field study has now shed critical light on the impact of module tilt angle on bifacial PV performance, specifically when deployed over a sand-covered ground surface. The research, conducted in a controlled outdoor environment, provides vital empirical data for optimizing energy yields in high-albedo settings, a key consideration for large-scale solar developments in desert regions.

Traditional monofacial solar panels rely solely on direct and diffuse irradiance striking their front surface. Bifacial modules, however, leverage reflected light from the ground (albedo) to generate additional power from their rear side. The efficiency of this rear-side gain is highly dependent on factors such as module height, inter-row spacing, and crucially, the tilt angle, which dictates the amount of reflected light incident on the module's underside. While laboratory simulations and theoretical models have offered insights, real-world field studies on specific ground types like sand, known for its high reflectivity, have been less prevalent.

The study meticulously varied the tilt angles of bifacial PV modules installed on a sand-covered testbed, collecting comprehensive performance data over an extended period. Researchers analyzed the correlation between tilt angle, incident irradiance on both module sides, and the resulting power output (kWh/kWp). Preliminary findings indicate that specific tilt angles, often differing from those optimized for monofacial arrays or low-albedo surfaces, can significantly boost overall energy yield. The optimal angles identified maximized the capture of both direct sunlight on the front and diffuse reflected light from the sand on the rear, demonstrating a substantial increase in total energy generation compared to sub-optimal configurations.

This research holds profound implications for the global solar industry, particularly for projects in arid and semi-arid regions where sand is the predominant ground cover. By precisely understanding how tilt angles influence bifacial performance in these environments, project developers can design solar farms that achieve higher power outputs per installed capacity. This optimization can lead to improved financial returns, reduced land usage per megawatt, and a lower levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), making solar power even more competitive against conventional energy sources. The study underscores the necessity of site-specific analysis and sophisticated design considerations for maximizing the economic viability of bifacial PV technology.