Albedo and solar energy harvesting: A review on its impact and estimation in photovoltaic applications

Surface albedo plays a significant role in photovoltaic (PV) energy generation, especially for bifacial modules that are more responsive to reflected solar irradiance. Growing interest in bifacial technologies has amplified the need to understand and quantify albedo effects across diverse environmental contexts. This review examines existing literature that addresses albedo impacts on PV performance, either as a primary focus or as part of broader energy yield analyses. A range of application scenarios is considered, including urban settings, snow-covered areas, desert environments, water-based installations, and others. Emphasis is placed on the methods used to estimate albedo, ranging from satellite observations to ground-based measurements, and on the variability of albedo due to surface type, atmospheric conditions, and temporal dynamics. The review also considers the integration of albedo data into simulation tools and the implications for energy modeling accuracy. Studies on the use of artificial reflectors and modified ground surfaces are included to highlight design strategies for enhancing irradiance capture. Finally, two original illustrative analyses are proposed to evaluate the albedo effect on the best tilt angle for monofacial and bifacial PV modules.