Quantifiying benefits of vehicle-integrated photovoltaics

Researchers have developed a model to quantify the benefits of vehicle-integrated photovoltaic (VIPV) solutions on three different sizes of electric vehicles (EVs) in the city of Graz, Austria, particularly the effect on battery energy and vehicle mileage.

The model revealed several key factors that affect energy harvesting and yield for EV traffic, including insight into weight ranges, surface areas to cover with PV, what type of PV, and energy consumption.

“Our study presents a simulation model that allows for adjustments to various parameters, including time, date, driving and parking cycles, and vehicle type. This model enables comparisons of solar energy production across different seasons and usage patterns,” Judy Jalkh, corresponding author told pv magazine, adding that it calculated solar PV contributions from vehicle zones, such as the roof, hood, trunk, and doors.

Click here to read the full article
Source: PV Magazine

—

If you have any questions or thoughts about the topic, feel free to contact us here or leave a comment below.