Gain of bifacial PV modules on horizontal single-axis trackers in desert climates

Over the last few years, the demand for bifacial PV modules has continuously increased. However, there are still some aspects regarding their outdoor performance under real conditions that need further investigation. This paper analyzes the bifacial PV modules gain obtained over one year in a horizontally tracked PV power plant located in the Atacama Desert, Chile. The study was carried out over the course of a year for two different types of trackers: a standard tracker as used in the rest of the plant and a tracker that, according to the manufacturer, is specially designed to maximize the production of the bifacial modules. The results show that bifacial PV modules with a conventional tracker are able to gain approximately a 5% in terms of both radiation and production whereas the bifacial PV modules mounted on the special bifacial tracker can gain up to 5.8% and 6.1 % respectively.