Modelling Performance and Availability of Solar Streetlights in Shaded Environments

In this work, a system performance model of a standalone streetlight was developed, which is comprised of models for the photovoltaic (PV) array, battery, converter, and LED luminaire. This model is paired with an irradiance and shade model, which uses a Digital Surface Model (DSM) and solar position to estimate the irradiance reaching the streetlight when located in environments affected by shade. The system performance model and the component models were developed and validated using test data from DTU's Risø laboratories in Roskilde, Denmark, and measurements from streetlight prototypes present on campus. It is designed to be modular, allowing for the analysis of different systems using the same modelling framework. Combining the system performance model and irradiance and shade model allows for remote assessments of the operation and performance of the lamp in any environment with DSM data available. It can, therefore, be a valuable tool for assisting installation and optimization of the streetlight design. The operation of both models is shown for a case study in the Red Square in Copenhagen, where a proposed installation of eight solar streetlights is analyzed.