Abstract
As the global energy landscape shifts towards renewable energy sources, photovoltaic (PV) systems are being increasingly deployed. However, their structural stability, particularly under wind loading, remains a key challenge that affects both safety and long-term performance. This study investigates the aerodynamic and structural response of PV panel support systems under various environmental conditions. Using ANSYS Workbench, several simulation cases were performed, exploring a range of tilt angles (5° to 45°), wind directions (45° to 180°), mounting heights (0.5 m to 3.35 m), and panel sizes. The most critical scenario was identified at a45° tilt with a 45° wind direction, resulting in the highest levels of stress and deformation. Although such a configuration can maximize solar exposure, it introduces a significant mechanical integrity concern. In this paper, and to optimize the PV performance in local Libyan climatic conditions, considering a wind direction of45°, a design featuring a tilt angle of 30°, a mounting height of2.5 meters, and a medium panel size (2×3 m) was recommended. This configuration achieves a balance between structural integrity and aerodynamic performance. It crucially improves overall system efficiency by minimizing vibrations and deformations, factors that reduce electrical output overtime. The study concludes with practical recommendations for the deployment of robust and efficient PV systems in wind-prone areas.