Glare-Free Airport-Based Photovoltaic System via Optimization of Its Azimuth Angle

Abstract

Photovoltaic modules and systems (PVs) play an important role in achieving self-sustainable airports. In particular, airport-based PVs (A-PVs) have access to their full potential because airports are typically located in open spaces. However, the reflection of solar light by A-PVs’ front glass is unavoidable and may cause an accident due to solar glare (SG). In this study, we theoretically calculated the risk of SG from A-PVs depending on their azimuthal installation orientation (θPV) and derived a general design rule for minimizing the SG. The simulation reveals that the SG from A-PVs facing the runway and potential flight path causes after-images in pilots and ground workers throughout the year (>800 h/year). On the other hand, modifying their θPV, facing opposite runways and flight paths, significantly reduces the SG (<1 h/year) by reflecting the incident light outside the aircraft route. Although the θPV is not southward, their annual energy generation with an optimized θPV decreases by only 5–7% compared with A-PVs facing southward. This universal design approach is verified at four other airports, confirming the model’s validity. We believe our study will contribute to more solar light harvesting at airports without glare hazards.