Case Study of Bifacial PV Based Noise Barriers in Lithuania

In this work, installed PV noise barrier (PVNB) projects by Solitek in Lithuania have been reviewed from technical and economical perspectives. Bifacial PV modules were integrated with aluminum frames and rubber gaskets to be replaced with standard sound barrier panels (perforated aluminum) where such mounting structures enable simple retrofitting option for noise barriers. Modules in series were connected to DC/AC Inverter and grid. Data from inverter, weather station and 3 pyranometers have been employed for performance evaluation of PVNB. In addition, electromagnetic properties of PVNB in cellular network band (900 - 2000 MHz) have been explored. Energy generation pattern of PVNB corresponds to typical generation curve of vertical PV installations where two energy peaks are visible. Calculated and simulated performance ratio differs around ~0.15 which is explained due to shading structures above PV noise barriers which affects irradiance absorbance both from east and west sides. The different designs of PVNB with different distance between supporting pillars (2.5m and 4m) in the segment shows price difference from 8% to 16% comparing with standard noise barriers and by having fixed prices such of electricity 110 eur/MWh and 150 eur/MWh, the payback time for both designs range from 2-3 (when d = 2.5m) to 5- 7 (when d = 4m) years accordingly. The findings after experiments of signal transmittance and reception of the electromagnetic radiation passing through PV module indicate the module similarities to metallic plate in terms of attenuation and signal strength properties for cellular network applications.