Event Title

Maximizing Efficiency of a Solar Panel

Presenter Information

Jay Magers, Susquehanna University

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Massooma Pirbhai

Start Date

23-4-2019 4:40 PM

End Date

23-4-2019 5:00 PM

Description

Solar energy has been gaining more attention in recent years as a possible method to provide power to the United States with clean renewable energy. Currently, Photovoltaic (PV) devices, which are devices capable of harvesting solar energy such as solar cells, are being integrated into various applications such as powering homes, businesses, cars, and other everyday appliances. However, solar cells currently only have a maximum efficiency of converting ~34% of incident sunlight. Therefore, measures must be taken to optimally convert the output of solar panels to maintain its maximum efficiency. In this project, a solar panel is constructed utilizing devices such as a solar tracker and a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge converter that promote optimal energy conversion. The outputted energy of this system is measured and analyzed to determine the overall efficiency of the constructed solar panel and it’s potential to be used as a viable energy source.

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Apr 23rd, 4:40 PM Apr 23rd, 5:00 PM

Maximizing Efficiency of a Solar Panel

Solar energy has been gaining more attention in recent years as a possible method to provide power to the United States with clean renewable energy. Currently, Photovoltaic (PV) devices, which are devices capable of harvesting solar energy such as solar cells, are being integrated into various applications such as powering homes, businesses, cars, and other everyday appliances. However, solar cells currently only have a maximum efficiency of converting ~34% of incident sunlight. Therefore, measures must be taken to optimally convert the output of solar panels to maintain its maximum efficiency. In this project, a solar panel is constructed utilizing devices such as a solar tracker and a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge converter that promote optimal energy conversion. The outputted energy of this system is measured and analyzed to determine the overall efficiency of the constructed solar panel and it’s potential to be used as a viable energy source.