AUTHOR=Awoyinka T. D. , David T. W. , Somefun T. E. , Somefun C. T. , Orovwode H. E. 

TITLE=I-V response test of 60–150 W mono-crystalline solar panel

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Energy Research

VOLUME=12

YEAR=2024

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/energy-research/articles/10.3389/fenrg.2024.1375854

DOI=10.3389/fenrg.2024.1375854

ISSN=2296-598X

ABSTRACT=<p>This work investigates the discrepancies in electrical parameters of mono-crystalline solar panels between Ago-Iwoye weather conditions and the manufacturer’s specified ideal conditions. Manufacturer’s specifications are typically based on 1,000 W/m<sup>2</sup> global solar irradiance, AM 1.5, and 25°C operating temperature, while actual weather conditions at installation sites can vary significantly. Mono-crystalline (single-crystal) silicon solar panels of capacities 60, 80, 100, and 150 W were evaluated through current-voltage (I-V) response tests at an installation site in Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria, with solar irradiance exposure from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The analysis of I-V and P-V curves revealed a significant reduction in maximum power output by 28.6%, 25.9%, 28.9%, and 19.36%, respectively, compared to the manufacturer’s stated values. This deviation underscores the importance of considering local weather conditions during solar PV projects, and we recommend adding an additional 20%–30% of the total solar panel capacity during installations to account for variations in solar irradiance and operating temperatures, ensuring optimal performance and effective solar power generation in Ago-Iwoye and similar areas.</p>