Techno-Economic Analysis of Rooftop Solar Installations with and without Reflectors Under Indian Climatic Conditions: Impact on Performance, Efficiency, and Payback Period

This review examines the techno-economic implications of using reflectors in rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations under Indian climatic conditions. The study evaluates how the integration of reflective surfaces—such as aluminum sheets or mirror panels—affects the performance, efficiency, and economic viability of solar rooftop systems. India, with its diverse climate zones and growing demand for decentralized renewable energy, presents a strategic environment for deploying such performance-enhancing measures. The review synthesizes experimental studies, simulation-based analyses, and case studies conducted across various Indian states. Results indicate that the use of reflectors can improve solar panel output by 10–25%, particularly in northern and western regions with high solar insolation. However, increased maintenance, thermal stress, and initial capital costs are associated trade-offs. A cost-benefit analysis shows that systems with reflectors tend to achieve shorter payback periods—typically by 1–2 years—depending on installation size, reflector quality, and regional irradiance. The study concludes that while reflectors are not universally beneficial, they offer significant performance and economic advantages in high-radiation regions, especially for commercial and institutional installations