Optimal GCRs for HSAT, Fixed-tilt, and Vertical PV Systems for Latitudes up to 75◦N

Traditional PV array layout guidelines were designed for monofacial, fixed-tilt systems at low-to-moderate latitudes. Now that the market has progressed toward bifacial technologies, higher latitudes, and land-constrained areas, updated guidelines are more important than ever.

Here is a summary of key results from an analysis of ground coverage ratios (GCRs) for fixed-tilt, HSAT, and vertical arrays across 31 North American locations ranging from 17°N to 75°N.
 

• Fixed-tilt systems span a wide GCR range of 0.15–0.68 compared to HSAT systems (0.17–0.32) and vertical systems (0.11–0.16).
• Latitude is a stronger driver of inter-row energy yield shading losses than diffuse fraction. Higher latitude systems require lower GCR to maintain a specific inter-row loss.
• Bifacial modules require GCRs approximately 0.03 lower than monofacial modules.

For more details, download the paper.

Erin M. Tonita *, Annie C.J. Russell , Christopher E. Valdivia , Karin Hinzer