A research paper by fellows of the Brew-Hammond Energy Centre, has been recognised among the most cited articles in Wiley’s Journal of Engineering, underscoring the Centre’s growing global research impact in renewable energy.

The study, conducted by Dr. Rahimat Oyiza Yakubu, together with Professor David Ato Quansah, Professor Lena Dzifa Mensah and Prof. Samuel Muyiwa Adaramola presents a systematic literature review of bifacial photovoltaic (PV) modules and their applications, an emerging innovation in solar energy technology.

Bifacial photovoltaic modules are designed to capture solar radiation from both the front and rear surfaces, significantly improving energy generation efficiency compared to traditional monofacial panels. The study notes that under optimal conditions, bifacial systems can deliver up to 30% higher energy yield per unit area.

The research highlights that performance is influenced by climatic conditions, installation design, and system configuration, with flexible mounting options such as vertical east-west installations offering improved energy distribution across morning and evening demand periods.

The authors also emphasize that increasing ground reflectivity (albedo) can further enhance energy output, while advancements in modelling and performance prediction are accelerating the technology’s adoption and bankability.

Bifacial PV technology is already being deployed across a wide range of applications, including residential and commercial systems, floating solar installations, agro-photovoltaic systems, and building-integrated solar solutions. Industry forecasts project that bifacial PV cells could account for up to 85% of the global solar market by 2032.

Speaking on the recognition, Professor Quansah, Director of the Centre, expressed  excitement about the recognition

“We are excited that research by African scholars in solar energy technologies is gaining recognition on the global stage’’, he said.