Pages 359–366
Abstract
Research summary supplied by the authors
Solar energy has emerged as a key sustainable alternative to depleting conventional energy resources and combating climate change. Its adoption is accelerating globally due to factors like population growth, increasing energy demand, and market uncertainties. India, a tropical nation, has taken a global leadership role in solar energy, achieving significant milestones in large-scale solar installations. However, addressing efficiency losses in solar plants installed in Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) of leather sector remains crucial for sustained growth. The efficiency of solar modules depends on factors such as cell material, temperature, solar irradiation, wind speed, and temperature coefficient loss being the most significant. This study investigates the impact of module surface temperature and wind speed on the efficiency of a large-scale in situ solar plant installed a CETP over four months. The findings confirm that increased cell temperatures lead to efficiency losses regardless of seasonal conditions. Wind speed provides a cooling effect that lowers module surface temperature, but its impact is limited during periods of low wind. These insights emphasize the need for innovative strategies to mitigate temperature-induced losses and enhance system performance. Addressing these challenges is critical for optimizing solar energy production and supporting the global transition toward renewable energy solutions. This study underscores the importance of sustainable design improvements in advancing solar energy.