Integrated Solar Geometry Modelling and Real-Time Environmental Monitoring for Photovoltaic Performance Optimisation

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are important for advancing renewable energy generation; however, their operational efficiency is strongly dependent on fluctuating environmental conditions. Variations in solar irradiance, ambient temperature, wind speed, and angle of incidence interact to influence PV cell temperature and, consequently, power output. While these factors have been examined individually in previous studies, integrated approaches that combine continuous environmental monitoring with real-time performance modelling remain limited. This study presents a year-long analysis in which theoretical solar geometry calculations were coupled with high-resolution empirical measurements. Solar position parameters were derived dynamically, enabling real-time cell temperature and efficiency estimation. The results show that efficiency decreased from the nominal 15% under standard test conditions to an average of 13.0% under field conditions, reflecting the effect of elevated temperatures and variable irradiance. Wind speed provided a measurable cooling effect, reducing cell temperature by up to 12 °C at 15–17 m/s and thereby mitigating thermal losses. Furthermore, variations in the angle of incidence were identified as a key factor driving short-term efficiency fluctuations. Validation of the predictive efficiency model (Eq. 11) against measured data demonstrated strong consistency (deviations < 8%). These findings underscore the importance of incorporating adaptive orientation mechanisms and effective thermal management strategies into PV system design. The integrated modelling–measurement approach proposed here offers a more accurate basis for site-specific performance prediction and system optimisation.