The mathematical model for finding an optimal PV system configuration for the given installation area providing a maximal lifetime profit

A mathematical model for finding an optimal photovoltaic (PV) system configuration for the given installation area obtaining a maximal profit during a PV power plant lifetime is presented in this paper. The model gives an optimal number of rows and a module angle taking into account the influence of the inter-row shading on the PV module output power by introducing a shading factor which depends on the ratio of a sunny part of the module and a total module surface. In order to calculate the profit of the PV installation, a net present value (NPV) methodology is used. The model is programmed in MATLAB software. The case study results demonstrate a huge influence of the inter-row module partial shading on finding the optimal PV configuration using the given PV module.