The Effects of Solar Panel Temperature on the Power Output Efficiency in Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The current push for adoption of alternative energysources necessitates research into parameters that would enhancethe optimum harvest of the benefits of such efforts.Purpose: To determine the effects of solar panel temperature on itsefficiency in Calabar, Nigeria, by determining the output currentand voltage changes due to solar panel temperature.Materials and Methods: A modern digital thermometer, Model220k type, and Alda ADV 890C digital multimeter, were used toobtain measurements of solar panel temperatures, current andvoltage, respectively, in Calabar, Nigeria. Comparisons were madeof the values of current and voltage obtained with solar paneltemperature changes, and efficiency of the output of the solarpanels determined by calculation using efficiency as given byKachhava (2003).Results: Results indicate that a maximum output current of18.4x10-1A was recorded at 42.8oC. Beyond this temperature theoutput current dropped down to 12x10-1A at 54.8oC. The voltageoutput remained relatively stable as solar panel temperatureincreased. Power output efficiency dropped from 82.3% at 42.8oCto 52.4% at 54.8oC.Conclusion: High solar panel temperatures may have adverseeffects on solar panel efficiency. The result obtained in this studysuggest a maximum operating temperature of solar panel inCalabar, Nigeria.