Effect of light concentration by flat mirror reflectors on the electrical power output of the photovoltaic panel

• Main Authors: Sathyanarayana P., Rajkiran Ballal, Girishkumar, Laksmisagar P. S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Applied Science Innovations Private Limited 2014-03-01
• Series: Carbon: Science and Technology
• Subjects: solar cell; light concentration; solar energy
• Online Access: http://www.applied-science-innovations.com/cst-web-site/CST-6-1-2014/CST%20-%2092.pdf

Renewable energy area is gaining more prominence in recent times. In particular, conversion of solar energy in to electricity by using PV Panel has attracted significant researchers. In this work, the effect of light concentration by reflectors and inclination of PV panel on power output of PV panel has been investigated. Flat mirror reflectors were fixed to PV panel to increase the light intensity. The panel was kept either horizontally or at 30° inclination to horizontal. The effect on I-V curve, power curve, fill factor and efficiency are discussed. A significant improvement in short circuit current, power and a small increase in efficiency is perceived with the introduction of reflectors.