Data-Driven-Based Analysis and Modeling for the Impact of Wildfire Smoke on PV Systems

With the vast deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems and the increasing number of wildfires, understanding the impact of wildfire smoke on PV generation is essential for power systems operation and planning. This article analyzes the impact of wildfire smoke on solar spectra, radiation, spectral irradiance, and output of a grid-tied PV system based on the data collected during wildfire events. A model for the PV power output reduction caused by wildfire smoke and the significance of meteorological factors are developed and assessed using a data-driven technique. The developed model accurately estimates the power output reduction of PV systems caused by wildfire smoke. The developed model is also applied to study power reduction on different PV cell technologies. The result implies that solar cell technologies respond to wildfire smoke differently. High wildfire-risk areas should consider different solar cell materials to mitigate the power output reduction due to wildfire smoke. The outcome of this study is critical for future power systems operation decision making and management with high penetration of solar generation to ensure the stability and reliability of the power grids.