PV modules installed at 1.1 m delivered the highest performance, reaching peak power near 39 W and average efficiency of 6.67%
Improved airflow at intermediate elevation reduced cell temperatures by up to 9°C compared to higher mounting
Statistical analysis revealed that mounting height significantly influenced both power output and efficiency
Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems are typically optimized for tilt angle, orientation, and row spacing. Structural clearance from the ground is generally determined by installation constraints, terrain conditions, and maintenance access. Its impact on electrical performance is less frequently examined in isolation.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports, titled “Analysis of effects of elevation on the power output and efficiency of ground-mounted photovoltaic modules,” investigates how mounting height influences the performance of ground-mounted PV modules.
For the experiment, 3 identical 60 W polycrystalline modules were installed at heights of 0.7 m, 1.1 m and 1.6 m above a concrete base. All modules were south-facing and fixed at a 45° tilt. To understand how elevation affects performance, the researchers tracked the full thermal-electrical chain.
The experiment was conducted at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE). The module installed at 1.1 m operated at the lowest temperature. The temperature on the rear of the cell was about 4-5°C lower than the module installed at 0.7 m and 7-9°C lower than the one at 1.6 m.
At 0.7 m, airflow beneath the module was limited. At 1.6 m, stronger winds likely introduced turbulence, making cooling less stable. The intermediate height provided more balanced airflow and more consistent heat removal.
This thermal advantage translated into higher electrical output. Peak power at 1.1 m approached 39 W during midday conditions.
The study also included an economic assessment based on modeled assumptions. It estimated a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of $0.0843/kWh and CO₂ mitigation of 577.78 kg over a 25-year lifetime for the tested system.
Although the experiment was conducted over a limited time window and evaluated only 3 discrete elevations, the findings suggest that structural clearance can function as a thermal optimization parameter. For ground-mounted installations over reflective surfaces, intermediate elevation may improve energy yield without changes to module technology.