Simple technological guidelines for the implementation of the Romanian National Strategy on PV systems

This paper provides guidelines which may be useful for the implementation of the Romanian PV system Strategy. Four solutions for PV module orientation were analyzed: (1) fixed optimum tilt angle, (2) single-axis azimuth orientation; (3) single-axis elevation orientation and (4) two-axis orientation. The fixed module at optimum tilt angle collects 14–17% more solar energy than a horizontal module. The optimum tilt angle ranges between 32° in the South and 40° in the North of the country. The difference between the performance of the two single-axis orientation systems (2) and (3) is small. Both systems provide 23–25% more electric energy than fixed modules. Two axes orientation generates 27–30% more electric energy than fixed modules. Modules based on the four types of cells have been considered for a PV plant of given installed power: (1) Poly Si; (2) Mono Si; (3) CdTe and (4) CuInSe. The smallest and largest collection surface areas correspond to Mono Si and CdTe, respectively. The energy generated by all types of modules is comparable, with the highest and lowest values being associated to CdTe and CuInSe cells, respectively. The limited transport capacity of the existing electric grid in South-East Romania puts an upper bound on the number of PV systems to be carried out in the near future.

► The Romanian PV system Strategy stated as a target 260 MW installed power by 2020. ► The potential of the local administration to implement the Strategy is described. ► The optimum PV module's tilt angle is shown for eighty locations. ► The dependence of the electric energy generated on PV cell type is studied.