Energy, environmental and economic performance of bi-facial photovoltaic noise barrier applied in city scale

Solar energy in transportation reduces fossil fuel consumption and supports carbon neutrality. Photovoltaic noise barriers (PVNB) are used globally to harness renewable energy along roads. This study's novelty lies in the detailed consideration of road orientation and the application of bifacial photovoltaic technology when assessing the potential for large-scale deployment of PVNB. Bifacial PV technology captures solar radiation from both sides, enhancing energy efficiency. A mathematical model was established and validated to predict PVNB power output at 5 degrees azimuth intervals. Geographic information system (GIS) technology was used to quantify trunk roads, motorways, and RNB in Shenzhen, China. Accordingly, the electricity generation potentials of PVNB, as well as the economic and environmental benefits were calculated. The installed capacity and power generation of PVNB in Shenzhen are 432.29 MW and 313.37 GWh, respectively. The levelized cost of electricity is 0.4781 CNY/kWh. Compared to a 600 MW coal-fired unit, 9119.09 tce of fossil fuel can be saved, with lifecycle carbon reduction of 3.80 Tg and net carbon reduction of 3.05 Tg.