Experimental Study of Module Elevation and Ground Cover Type on Photovoltaic Performance

This experimental study systematically explores the effects of elevation height and ground surface condition on the thermal and electrical performance of photovoltaic modules based on monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic modules under field conditions in a subtropical climate. Three identical 60 W monofacial PV modules were installed at heights of 0.7 m, 1.1 m, and 1.6 m above dried grass and vegetation-covered surfaces to assess the influence of airflow, albedo, and microclimatic cooling. Voltage, current, ambient air speed, ambient pressure, temperature, and irradiance were continuously recorded using high-precision dataloggers. Results show that module elevation strongly affects operating temperature and electrical efficiency, with the 1.1 m height yielding the highest power output (maximum 45.2 W) and conversion efficiency (7.0%). Vegetation reduced cell temperature through evapotranspiration, enhancing performance, while dried grass increased heat accumulation. Despite slightly higher irradiance above dried grass, modules over vegetation performed more efficiently. Overall, a moderate elevation and vegetative cover improve PV cooling and efficiency, offering an effective strategy for optimising agrivoltaic and eco-integrated PV systems.