OPTIMIZATION OF SOLAR POWER PLANT PARAMETERS ACCORDING TO ITS LAYOUT AT A SPECIFIC LATITUDEZaimović, Armin (Avtor) Čepin, Marko (Mentor) solar power plant simulationphotovoltaic systemssolar energysolar power plant optimal parametersDifferent solar panel parameters have a great impact on the production of electrical energy and economical justification. Research has shown that proper panel parameters can increase energy production and decrease investment costs. The objective is to determine the best panel parameters for the Earth's geometric layout considering latitude at a location of 42° North to achieve the best cost-effective solution. Based on a review of the literature on solar radiation, the working principle of a solar cell, shadowing effect, different kinds of photovoltaic panels, and the influence of bypass diodes, simulation was made. The mathematical model was developed, which calculates solar irradiation, a total power output of a solar power plant for a certain time, and location. Data for solar irradiation and power output is calculated every 15 minutes, and from this data, energy production is calculated. After that, simulation, based on inserted parameters gives the best possible solution for a certain location. Analyzing the results of a simulation, it was concluded that for higher inclinations, longer distances are to be used. If panels are stacked more together, smaller panel inclinations are recommended, for example when using an inclination of 0°, there should be no distance between the panels. In global, to explain the relation between inclinations, panel distances, and a number of bypass diodes, simulations for different scenarios are required. The results indicate that the installed power has the greatest impact on the production of electrical energy. On this basis, it is recommended that for smaller distances between the panels, panels with a higher number of bypass diodes are to be used, except for the cases when small panel inclinations are used. Further research is needed to identify other factors that could lead to changes in energy production, and if the longer exposure to shadow will influence panel efficiency and lifespan.[A. Zaimović]20212021-06-23 13:45:00Magistrsko delo/naloga127814UDK: 621.311.243(043.2)VisID: 55821COBISS_ID: 68239619sl