Efficiency Of Solar Panels Research Articles

Evaluation of self-cleaning mechanisms for improving performance of roof-mounted solar PV panels: A comparative study.

Solar panel installation is generally exposed to dust. Therefore, soiling on the surface of the solar panels significantly reduces the effectiveness of solar panels. Accumulation of dust also shortens their lifespan and reduces efficiency by about 15% to 20%. A significant reduction in the efficiency of solar photovoltaic panels has been observed due to inadequate insulation and dust deposition or shading. To harness maximum solar energy from solar panels up to their rated capacity, they need to be cleaned periodically. Therefore, the current study focuses on the comparative performance analysis of two distinct types of self-cleaning mechanisms, namely self-cleaning wiper (SCW) and nano-coating method. These methods are economical and sustainable for the standard atmospheric conditions of Pakistan. Solar panels (reference, nano-coated, and self-cleaning wiper mechanism) were placed on the roof of the Mechanical Engineering Department MUST Mirpur AJK for five weeks. Solar irradiance, dust density & performance parameters of these three panels were recorded on weekly basis. It was observed that an increase in the rate of dust deposition negatively affects the conversion efficiency of solar panels. When dust density was increased from 7.5 to 18.15 (g/m2), the percentile drops in rated power (50W) for reference, nano-coated, and self-cleaning wiper mechanisms are 37%, 33% and 23%, respectively. Moreover, the payback period of nano-coated and SCW is 1.07 years and 2.79 years, respectively.

Thermal Energy Harvesting using Photovoltaic System for Small-Scale Seawater Distillation

Photovoltaic systems can be utilized for many purposes. In the present study, the photovoltaic system is used to produce electricity to power the distillator. A distillator is an equipment to convert seawater into freshwater. Distillators are important to be used for fishermen to help them produce fresh water from seawater when fishing at sea. This study aims to develop a prototype of a distillator by utilizing electricity from a photovoltaic system and to test the prototype's performance in producing fresh water. In this study, the solar panels used in the experiment had a power of 80WP and 100WP. The electricity from the panels was used to heat the elements in the distillator prototype to distill seawater, which will later be used to produce the freshwater needed by fishermen at sea, so they no longer need to carry fresh water when fishing. The experiment found that the highest efficiency of 80W solar panels was 12.813 %, while the highest efficiency of 100 W solar panels was 8.610%. The 9-hour experiment could produce approximately 120 ml of distilled water.

PROPOSTA DE ELETROPOSTOS MODULARES PARA CARROS ELÉTRICOS ABASTECIDOS POR ENERGIA SOLAR

In recent years, the growing demand for electric vehicles has intensified the need for adequate infrastructure for their charging. Charging stations, dedicated to supplying energy to these vehicles, play a crucial role in the transition to sustainable urban mobility. This study proposes the development of modular charging stations powered by solar energy, focusing on solutions that favor sustainability and efficiency. The primary objective is to create systems that integrate photovoltaic technology, promoting the use of clean energy and contributing to the reduction of air pollution. The research evaluates the viability of on-grid and off-grid systems, aiming to optimize the efficiency of solar panels and reduce operational costs. Factors such as ideal location, shading prevention, and the environmental impacts of electric mobility are analyzed. Additionally, existing charging station examples are examined to identify best practices and innovations in urban design. The methodology includes exploratory and bibliographic research, utilizing case studies and literature reviews to support the proposal. As a result, the study culminates in a sustainable modular charging station proposal that is adaptable to different locations, promoting more efficient and eco-friendly mobility.

Experimental investigation of a nano coating efficiency for dust mitigation on photovoltaic panels in harsh climatic conditions

Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) panels in arid regions diminishes solar energy absorption and panel efficiency. In this study, the effectiveness of a self-cleaning nano-coating thin film is evaluated in reducing dust accumulation and improving PV Panel efficiency. Surface morphology and elemental analysis of the nano-coating and dust are conducted. Continuous measurements of solar irradiances and ambient temperature have been recorded. SEM analysis of dust revealed irregularly shaped micron-sized particles with potential adhesive properties, causing shading effects on the PV panel surface. Conversely, the coating particles exhibited a uniform, spherical shape, suggesting effective prevention of dust adhesion. Solar irradiance ranged from 120 W/m² to a peak of 720 W/m² at noon. Application of the self-cleaning nano-coating thin film consistently increased short circuit current (Isc), with the coated panel averaging 2.8 A, which is 64.7% higher than the uncoated panel’s 1.7 A. The power output of the coated panel ranged from 7 W to 38 W, with an average of approximately 24.75 W, whereas the uncoated panel exhibited a power output between 3 W and 23 W, averaging around 14 W. These findings highlight the substantial potential of nano-coating for effective dust mitigation, particularly in dusty environments, thus enhancing PV system reliability.

Nusselt number and skin‐friction coefficients of a micropolar flow over a flat plate under constant wall temperature conditions in a porous medium

AbstractThis study examines the forced convection of a micropolar fluid (MPF) flow across a vertical permeable plate inside a porous medium. A similar solution is derived for a scenario involving a constant surface temperature. The system of transformed governing equations is addressed by employing a finite‐difference method. Notably, a parametric analysis is conducted to demonstrate how the Prandtl number, micropolar parameters, Darcy number, inertia coefficient (ξ), skin friction (Cf), and Nusselt number (Nu) impact the system. The results are then presented graphically, while the physical aspects of the issue are assessed. Although a larger Nu produced a high wall heat transfer, the Cf values are decreased as ξ increases. The ξ also reduces the local Nu. Compared with Newtonian fluids, the MPF increases Cf and reduces the heat transfer rate. The outcomes are validated by comparing the current results with other related studies. The results of this study are useful for improving the efficiency of solar panels by enhancing their cooling rate. It is also found that increasing the inertia of MPF leads to an increase in the friction coefficient (Cf) while increasing porosity, microrotation parameter n and Fs decreases (Cf).

Increasing the Efficiency of Ecological Solar Panels Combined with the Building’s Roof

This article is devoted to increasing the efficiency of ecological solar panels with their combination with the house’s roof. A solar panel construction that combines both the solar collector and the building cover is considered. This work investigates the efficiency of solar panels depending on the type of coating, heat-carrying medium mass flow rate, tube diameter, and the distance between the tubes. Among the coatings, Grafplast PDA roofing material is the most effective. Prandelli/Tuborama tubes with a diameter of 16 mm are recommended. The diameter of the tubes significantly affects the efficiency of the solar panel only at low intensity of solar radiation.

Air Pollution and Solar Photovoltaic Power Generation: Evidence from South Korea

Solar energy, with its declining costs and enhanced efficiency, is a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. However, its effectiveness is compromised by atmospheric and meteorological conditions, particularly air pollution, which reduces solar radiation and panel efficiency. This study estimates the impact of air pollution on solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation in South Korea, a rapidly industrializing nation with high levels of air pollution and a growing focus on renewable energy. Using hourly power generation data from 2006 to 2013 and addressing potential endogeneity of PM10 with an instrumental variable approach, we find that a 10 mg/m3 increase in PM10 reduces solar power generation by 2.17 MWh, resulting in an estimated annual economic loss of approximately USD 2.2 million during the study period. These findings highlight the urgent need to mitigate air pollution to enhance solar power efficiency and maximize the social benefits of renewable energy.

Development of Steg with Concentrating System

Solar cells, also known as photovoltaic cells, convert light energy into electrical energy through the photovoltaic effect. Integrating a thermoelectric generator into a photovoltaic system enhances power output and efficiency by utilizing waste heat. Concentrators are employed to further improve solar panel efficiency. This study aims to develop a solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) with a concentrating system that includes a heat sink cooling system, thermoelectric generator, and concentrator. Three conditions will be tested to observe the power output of each solar module: PV standalone, STEG with a heat sink, and STEG with a heat sink and concentrator. The efficiency appears to improve from 9.21% for PV standalone to 10.11% for STEG with a heat sink and 10.23% for STEG with a concentrating system. The results of these studies aim to establish a benchmark for enhancing the efficiency of future STEG systems.

IoT based Solar Panel Cleaning Rover

The primary objective of this proposed study is to design a system for effectively maintaining the cleanliness of solar panels, thereby enhancing their performance and longevity through an Internet of Things-based solar panel cleaning rover equipped with a sensors, and manual automation capabilities. A suite of sensors, including dust sensors, enables the rover to gather relevant data about the cleanliness status and ambient conditions surrounding the solar panels. Manual automation features empower users to intervene and control the rover's movements and cleaning actions as needed, providing flexibility and customization in operation. Furthermore, the rover is designed to connect directly with water tanks, facilitating an autonomous water supply for the cleaning process. A sponge brush mechanism is integrated into the rover's design to effectively remove dust from the solar panel surfaces. The proposed work has developed a prototype of the IoT-based solar panel cleaning rover, which has been tested to demonstrate its effectiveness in improving solar panel efficiency and reducing maintenance efforts.

A comprehensive review on architectural design and development of flexible photovoltaic solar panel

This review article aims to investigate the potential of flexible solar panels to revolutionize building and vehicle roofing design. The study explores the technology, its advantages over conventional panels, and architectural design considerations for seamless integration into curved surfaces. Flexible solar panels represent an emerging technology with the potential to transform the aesthetics and functionality of buildings and vehicles. Unlike rigid panels, flexible solar cells can conform to curved surfaces, offering new possibilities for architectural design and energy generation. This review comprehensively explores the technology behind flexible solar panels, comparing their characteristics to conventional flat panels. It delves into architectural design considerations, examining various methods and tools employed for optimizing panel shape, arrangement, and integration within the built environment. The findings of this review highlight the significant advantages of flexible solar panels in terms of aesthetic appeal and design flexibility. The ability to seamlessly integrate these panels into curved surfaces opens up new possibilities for architectural innovation. Flexible solar panels have the potential to become an integral component of future building and vehicle design. By overcoming the limitations of traditional solar technology, these panels can contribute to sustainable energy generation while enhancing the visual appeal of structures. Further research and development are necessary to optimize the efficiency and durability of flexible solar panels for extensive adoption.

An Experimental Assessment of the Performance of Solar Panels Using Efficiency Enhancement Techniques in India's Tropical Region

<p style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="line-height:normal"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size:10.0pt"><span style="color:black">Due to its abundance and lack of pollution, solar energy will soon be the most popular source of electricity production. Numerous factors, including the temperature effect, solar irradiance effect, shadow effect, incident angle effect, dust accumulation on the solar cell, shunt resistance, types of solar cell materials, mechanical defects in the solar panel, spectral mismatch loss, cable loss, maintenance and cleaning cycle, load mismatching effect, etc., harm the efficiency of solar P.V. power generation systems. This study aims to quantify the impact of these factors and explore efficiency enhancement techniques to mitigate their effects. Among the various factors, solar irradiation and temperature significantly influence solar P.V. panel efficiency. This research investigates the effects of solar irradiation, incident angle, and temperature through simulations and experimental methods using two 100W solar panels. Efficiency enhancement techniques like sensor-based sun tracking and temperature cooling systems are incorporated with conventional solar P.V. power generation systems. The experimental results prove that the efficiency enhancement techniques improved the efficiency of solar panels by up to 12% compared to conventional solar panels.</span></span></span></span></span></p>

Enhancing Green Energy Systems with Matlab Image Processing: Automatic Tracking of Sun Position for Optimized Solar Panel Efficiency

Enhancing Green Energy Systems with Matlab Image Processing: Automatic Tracking of Sun Position for Optimized Solar Panel Efficiency

Mitigating UV-Induced Degradation in Solar Panels through ZnO Nanocomposite Coatings

This study explores the enhancement of silicon-based solar cell performance and durability through the application of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposite film coatings. Utilizing the sol–gel method, ZnO nanorods were synthesized and dispersed within a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) matrix, resulting in uniform nanocomposite films. Comprehensive characterization using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), UV-Visible spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements confirmed the effective integration and desirable properties of ZnO within the PVB matrix. The ZnO coatings demonstrated superior UV absorptivity, significantly blocking UV radiation at 355 nm while maintaining high transparency in the visible range. This led to improvements in key photovoltaic parameters, including short circuit current (Jsc), open-circuit voltage (Voc), efficiency (η), and fill factor (FF). Although a minor reduction in Isc was observed due to the ZnO layer’s influence on the light absorption spectrum, the overall efficiency and fill factor experienced notable enhancements. Furthermore, the thermal load on the solar cells was effectively reduced, mitigating UV-induced degradation and thereby prolonging the operational lifespan of the solar panels. Under damp heat conditions, the coated solar panels exhibited remarkable durability compared to their uncoated counterparts, underscoring the protective advantages of ZnO films. These findings highlight the potential of ZnO nanocomposite coatings to significantly boost the efficiency, reliability, and longevity of silicon-based solar panels, making them more viable for long-term deployment in diverse environmental conditions.

Economic Optimization and Performance Enhancement of Rooftop Solar Power Systems Using Concentrated Solar Technology and Advanced Materials

Abstract: This research investigates the economic optimization and performance enhancement of rooftop solar power systems through the integration of concentrated solar technology and advanced materials. The aim is to assess the viability and effectiveness of these innovations in both residential and commercial settings. By focusing on improving energy efficiency and reducing costs, the study provides a comprehensive economic perspective on the adoption of these advanced solar technologies. Key aspects of the research include the evaluation of lifecycle costs, energy yield, and payback periods, offering insights into the long-term financial benefits and feasibility of implementing such systems. The integration of concentrated solar technology enhances the intensity of solar energy captured, thereby significantly boosting the efficiency of rooftop solar panels. Advanced materials, such as perovskites, multi-junction cells, and nanomaterials, are examined for their potential to improve energy absorption, durability, and overall performance of solar panels. The research employs simulation software to model the performance of these optimized systems under various environmental conditions, providing a detailed analysis of their energy output and efficiency.

Predictive Modeling of Solar PV Panel Operating Temperature over Water Bodies: Comparative Performance Analysis with Ground-Mounted Installations

Solar panel efficiency is significantly influenced by its operating temperature. Recent advancements in emerging renewable energy alternatives have enabled photovoltaic (PV) module installation over water bodies, leveraging their increased efficiency and associated benefits. This paper examines the operational performance of solar panels placed over water bodies, comparing them to ground-mounted solar PV installations. Regression models for panel temperature are developed based on experimental setups at BITS Pilani, India. Developed regression models, including linear, quadratic, and exponential, are utilized to predict the operating temperature of solar PV installations above water bodies. These models incorporated parameters such as ambient temperature, solar insolation, wind velocity, water temperature, and humidity. Among these, the one-degree regression models with three parameters outperformed the models with four or five parameters with a prediction error of 5.5 °C. Notably, the study found that the annual energy output estimates from the best model had an error margin of less than 0.2% compared to recorded data. Research indicates that solar PV panels over water bodies produce approximately 2.59% more annual energy output than ground-mounted systems. The newly developed regression models provide a predictive tool for estimating the operating temperature of solar PV installations above water bodies, using only three meteorological parameters: ambient temperature, solar insolation, and wind velocity, for accurate temperature prediction.

Prototype Design Remote Smart Car 4WD Robot Car with Additional Power Photovoltaic Source Integrated Arduino

The problem addressed in this research is designing an Electric Car Prototype, a technology design using Arduino Uno, L298N Driver Module, and HC-06 Bluetooth sensor which is controlled automatically using an application. The method used is a hybrid PLTS (Solar Power Plant) system based on Arduino Uno. This prototype combines electrical energy from batteries with solar energy produced by solar panels, and the main controller is Arduino Uno. Tests were carried out to evaluate the performance and efficiency of this electric car. The results of solar panel experiments in designing electric car prototypes, testing will be carried out on the efficiency of solar panels on the power produced. The following is the data from the experimental results measured through the following table 2 experiments. solar panels were installed on the roof or other parts exposed to sunlight on a prototype electric car. Solar panels consist of photovoltaic solar cells which are capable of converting solar energy into electrical energy. When sunlight falls on a solar panel, the solar cell produces an electric current. The electric current generated from the solar cell is then channeled to the charging module to charge the battery. The battery charging module regulates the voltage and electric current according to battery charging needs. This is important so that the battery does not receive too much or too little power during the charging process. After passing through the battery charging module, the electrical energy from the solar panels is used to charge the electric car battery. Electric car batteries function as energy storage which is used to control the engine and other electronic systems in the car. Obtained were the development of an environmentally friendly and sustainable electric vehicle.

Enhancing Solar Photovoltaic Panel Performance in India's Tropical Climate: An Experimental Study on the Influential Effects of Optical Filters

<p>Due to the increasing global energy demand and consequent climate change from burning fossil fuels, researchers are getting more focused on renewable energies as a potential solution to the world's energy problems. Solar energy is a prominent form of sustainable energy. The solar photovoltaic power generation system’s electrical performance is negatively influenced by several factors, including the impact of solar irradiance, incident angle, temperature, dust accumulation on the top of the solar cell, cracks in the solar panel, shadowing, shunt resistance, solar cell materials, load mismatch, maintenance and cleaning schedule, spectral mismatch loss, and cable loss. The direct environmental factors that have the biggest impact on efficiency are the effects of sun irradiance and temperature. This empirical investigation examined the impact of optical filters on the electrical efficiency of a 40W polycrystalline solar PV panel in India while considering real-time ambient conditions. Through the utilization of an optical filter, the solar PV panel's temperature is diminished, hence enhancing the output power of the solar panel. Based on the experimental findings, the utilization of a transparent plexiglass sheet equipped with a coolant system installed on the solar panels leads to a drop in the average operating temperature of the solar PV module by up to 6°C. Additionally, the output power is enhanced by up to 10W in comparison to the reference solar panel’s output performance.</p>

Exploration of irreversibility process and thermal energy of a tetra hybrid radiative binary nanofluid focusing on solar implementations

Abstract Thermal energy from the Sun comes mostly from sunlight. These energies might be used in photovoltaic cells, sustainable power systems, solar light poles, and water-collecting solar pumps. This age studies solar energy and how direct sunshine might improve solar panel efficiency. Solar energy, especially solar tiles, is widely used in manufacturing today. The literature includes a modified Buongiorno hybrid nanofluid prototype. There are no studies that have examined the impact of tri-hybrid and unique tetra hybridity nanomolecules integrated with the Buongiorno nanofluid prototype on liquid moving on a flexible surface. This study examines the effects of an improved Buongiorno tetra hybrid nanoliquid prototypical with Buongiorno and Tiwari–Das nanofluid on magnetized double-diffusive binary nanofluid with cross fluid and Maxwell liquid flowing with variant thermal conductance over a porous medium. Different profiles include diffusion thermo and thermo diffusion. The LobattoIIIA scheme’s convergence and stability are examined in terms of residual error, mesh points for ordinary differential equations (ODEs), and boundary conditions. Leading equations about liquid flow continuity, impetus, temperature, and concentricity are obtained using continuity, conservation of momentum, the second law of thermodynamics, Fick’s second law of diffusion, and boundary layer expectations. The system of partial differential equations obtained from the given assumption becomes a system of ODEs and well-established LobattoIII. Their numerical solution is obtained using a numerical technique. Statistical charts and tables provide numerical solutions. The heat transport rate of tetra-hybrid nanomolecules increases dramatically, unlike tri- and di-hybrid nanomolecules. The improved Buongiorno tetra hybrid nanofluid (BTHNF) model produces more heat when radiation Rd {\rm{Rd}} , Brownian diffusion Nb {\rm{Nb}} , and thermal conductivity are increased. The data show that the diffusion factor L L , Brinkman number Br {\rm{Br}} , and Reynolds number Re increase entropy production, but Bejan number reduces it owing to an increase in Be {\rm{Be}} and Re \mathrm{Re} . A statistical regression study shows that retaining the Maxwell fluid parameter constant and increasing the Weissenberg number We {\rm{We}} decrease the drag coefficient error. A BTHNF model containing tetra hybrid nanoparticles has not been utilized to examine heat and mass transferences in non-Newtonian fluids, considering diffusion, thermo, and thermo diffusion. Entropy generation in a binary fluid with tetra hybrid nanoparticles and BTHNF has not been studied. Tetra hybrid nanofluid is not mentioned in the literature. This effort aims to create a new tetra-hybrid nanofluid model. This article is novel because it investigates the effects of thermal radiation, thermal conductivity, porosity, Darcy–Forchheimer, and Buongiorno models on a tetra-hybrid nanofluid flow under an extensible sheet.

Enhancing PV solar panel efficiency through integration with a passive Multi-layered PCMs cooling system: A numerical study

Photovoltaic (PV) solar cells are at the forefront of sustainable electricity generation technologies, yet they exhibit relatively low efficiency. Typically, less than 20 % of the solar energy absorbed is converted into electrical energy, with the remainder converts into heat. This heat increases the PV panel's operating temperature, negatively impacting its efficiency and life expectancy. To mitigate this, a novel approach using multi-layered phase change materials (PCMs) has been examined in this study. The approach involves integrating organic PCMs (OPCMs) with metallic PCMs (MPCMs), enhancing PV panel cooling efficiency by attaching the multi-layer PCM to the panel's rear. This study, employing ANSYS FLUENT software's solidification and melting model, explores the impact of multi PCM layers thickness and total multi layers thickness on PV cell temperature and electrical efficiency. The analysis reveals that a multi-layered PCMs configuration with a thickness ratio of 15:85 between MPCM (CERROLOW-117® alloy) and OPCM (RT44) significantly decreases temperature rise in PV cells, resulting in a temperature drop of 59.6 °C. This improvement boosts PV panel performance by an average of 35.8 % compared to panels lacking cooling systems during peak sun hours under hot climate conditions characterized by ambient temperatures of 40 °C and high solar radiation exceeding 1000 W/m². This suggests that a carefully optimized PCM layering approach could markedly improve PV system efficiency, offering a practical solution to the overheating problem and extending the operational life of PV installations.

An Assessment of the Impact of Accumulated Dust on Efficiency and Performance Output of Solar Photovoltaic Panels

Part of the major causes of low performance and output of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is dust accumulation on the panel. The radiation getting to the solar cells of the panel can be decreased due to the accumulation of dust on the surface of the solar PV panel. Dust decreases the amount of radiation on solar cells of the panel, and also reduces the performance output of the solar PV panel. The environment is one of the contributing parameters which directly affect the photovoltaic performance. In this research work, the influence of dust, on the efficiency and performance output of solar PV panels is investigated to determine the efficiency of the solar PV panel, determine the energy power output of the solar PV system. Three identical panels are used to measure voltage, current and temperature. The result obtained showed that the meanfficiency for the clean panel is 14.98%, the mean efficiency for panel with artificial dust is 11.19% and that of the panel with natural dust is 13.25%. The mean power for the clean panel is 245.04 W, for panel with artificial dust is 183.20 W and for panel with natural dust is 216.86 W. This research shows the correlation between dust accumulation and reduced maximum power output due to the drop in both voltage and current values for the panel with dust.