Experimental research on power generation performance of under-bridge photovoltaic structure

Yaoyao Pei, Haonan Chu, Henglin Xiao, Zhi Chen and Wentao Li

Renewable Energy, 2025, vol. 240, issue C

Abstract: Road energy harvesting has become a research hotspot, and photovoltaic pavements have received greater attention, but challenges such as low surface carrying capacity and poor light transmission. To achieve efficient solar energy utilization, this research designs an under-bridge photovoltaic structure. The outdoor photoelectric effect test was used to investigate how the bridge orientation, reflective mirror angle, and pillar height affected the structure's power generating. The results show that: the bridge orientation, reflective mirror angle, and pillar height have a significant impact on the structure's output power; different bridge orientations and reflective mirror angle will result in different direct light received by the structure and the utilization rate of the reflective mirror. Considering the structural strength and cost comprehensively, the optimal pillar height is 1.2H. The daily power generation of the reflective under-bridge photovoltaic structure is 0.3183 kWh/m2, with a return on investment (ROI) of 50.85 % and payback period of 11.72 years. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) is 0.67 RMB/kWh, demonstrating significant economic benefits. Additionally, during the 20-year operation period, a reduction of 1462.21 kg/m2 in CO2 emissions is achieved, indicating substantial environmental benefits. This study provides a reliable reference for the future promotion and application of photovoltaic bridges.

Keywords: Solar energy harvesting; Photovoltaic structure; Bridge; Outdoor testing; Power generation performance; Economic evaluation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:renene:v:240:y:2025:i:c:s0960148124023218

DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.122253

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