Performance analysis of grid-connected rooftop solar photovoltaic systems using different photovoltaic technologies: a case study in Romania

Solar energy is one of the most important unlimited renewable energy sources that is becoming an increasingly used alternative to generate cleaner electricity. The efficiency of solar photovoltaic technologies has improved considerably, especially in the last decade. This study investigates the performance of a 6-kW grid-connected residential rooftop photovoltaic systems that are using various photovoltaic modules technologies, namely monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, heterojunction with intrinsic thin layer, thin film copper indium gallium selenide, cadmium telluride and amorphous silicon for a residence in Romania. The results highlight that thin film copper indium gallium selenide technology is the most suitable in terms of monthly average performance ratio, while monocrystalline silicon panel is the most appropriate option in terms of ratio between produced electricity and occupied area. The findings of this paper are valuable for the stakeholders in establishing the photovoltaic modules technologies that are suitable for the investigated location or other zones with similar climatic characteristics.