Advancements in Operational Modeling Methods for Photovoltaic Power Plants

Based on the fact that the energy strategy of many developed and developing countries envisages a significant increase in the share of alternative energy sources in the overall energy system (an example is the Energy Strategy of Ukraine until 2035), we can safely assert the relevance of research aimed at improving the efficiency of these technologies. However, in addition to constructive methods of improving efficiency, there are also seemingly insignificant methods that can be implemented during the direct operation of renewable energy sources (RES) installations. That is why the purpose of this work was to develop a method for taking into account new factors observed during the operation of the plant: the effect of dust on the surface of photovoltaic panels (PV) and their possible cleaning during operation. The basis for the development of this method, during the analysis of operating conditions, was the Bouguer-Lambert-Beer law, which was used to create a mathematical model that was verified by comparing it with the data obtained during the experiment. The research work carried out allowed us to improve the accuracy of calculating the generation of a solar power plant in the existing model and bring the conditions set in it closer to the operating conditions. Based on the results obtained, conclusions were drawn about the significance of the impact of PV plant surface dust on the efficiency of electricity generation and the economic effect for the owner. This model is complementary and in the future, with the addition of new units and improvement of existing ones, it can become a complete and perfect tool for calculating the economic feasibility of SPP projects (we have already used the model to formulate commercial offers to a local solar power plant supplier), or a means of forecasting electricity generation from photovoltaic power plants (PVPs).