Enhanced Solar Power Generation with Eco-Friendly Surfaces

Strategic Insights -

Fresh data on sustainability research reveals that a comprehensive assessment of bifacial solar photovoltaic systems has been conducted, comparing two surface types: proposed Freshwater Surface (PFWS) and Conventional White Surface (CWS). The study's findings indicate that PFWS demonstrates superior performance, achieving power output gains of 3.05% to 4.86% over CWS. Additionally, PFWS exhibits a clear advantage from an economic standpoint, with higher Net Present Value (NPV) figures and better environmental performance, including increased Gross Carbon Reduction (GCR) values and reduced Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE).

Key Takeaways:

  • The research conducted by Kamaraj College of Engineering & Technology focused on comparing two surface types: proposed Freshwater Surface (PFWS) and Conventional White Surface (CWS).
  • PFWS demonstrated superior performance, achieving power output gains ranging from 3.05% to 4.86% over CWS.
  • From an economic standpoint, PFWS showed a clear advantage, with higher Net Present Value (NPV) figures across all evaluated timeframes.
  • PFWS achieved better environmental performance, with increased Gross Carbon Reduction (GCR) values (891.884 to 892.873 tCO2) and a reduced Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE).
  • The study concluded that PFWS is more sustainable and scalable for solar energy, ideal in sunny, land-limited regions.
  • The research was conducted by Gurukarthik Babu Balachandran, Ganesan Rathinavel Pandian, Prince Winston David, and R. Santhiya from Kamaraj College of Engineering & Technology.

Statistics:

  • Power output gains: 3.05% to 4.86% over CWS
  • Net Present Value (NPV) figures for PFWS: $309.05 to $335.95
  • Net Present Value (NPV) figures for CWS: $288.42 to $330.96
  • Gross Carbon Reduction (GCR) values: 891.884 to 892.873 tCO2
  • Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) reduction: not specified

Sources:

  • Enhancing Solar Power Generation With Eco-friendly Surfaces To Promote Clean Energy, Reduce Emissions, and Foster Sustainable Resource Use. Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy, 2025
  • NewsRx. Studies from Kamaraj College of Engineering & Technology in the Area of Sustainability Research Described (Enhancing Solar Power Generation With Eco-friendly Surfaces To Promote Clean Energy, Reduce Emissions, and Foster Sustainable Resource Use). Global Warming Focus. October 13, 2025; p 803.