Recent research published in ‘Scientific Reports’ sheds light on the performance of high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules under conditions of partial shading. Conducted by Neha Kumari and her team from the Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering at Amity University Rajasthan, the study explores a critical issue in solar energy production: how shading affects the efficiency and reliability of PV modules.
As the demand for sustainable energy solutions grows, the efficiency of solar panels becomes paramount. This research specifically investigates the effects of single cell shading on PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) modules, which are known for their high efficiency. The team performed both indoor and outdoor experiments to analyze the electrical and thermal behavior of these modules under varying degrees of shading.
The findings reveal that when 40% to 60% of a single cell is shaded, there is a significant drop in power output. The indoor tests recorded a maximum power loss of 36.34%, while outdoor tests showed an even more concerning loss of 42%. Additionally, the outdoor experiments indicated that under critical shading scenarios, the temperature of hotspots could reach alarming levels of 85 to 90.1 °C. This temperature rise is directly linked to the potential failure of the PV system, highlighting the importance of understanding shading impacts.
Kumari emphasized the importance of this research for manufacturers and researchers alike, stating, “The development of hotspots is directly related to the failure or malfunction of the protecting system. Hence, the type of PV technology and the amount of shading are crucial considerations.” This insight is vital for the energy sector, as it suggests that improved design and protective measures could mitigate the risks associated with shading.
Furthermore, the study identified that the highest efficiency of the PV modules occurred between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM, correlating with solar radiation levels of 940 to 990 W/m². However, the efficiency dropped significantly from noon until 1:30 PM, indicating a critical window for energy production.
For the commercial energy sector, these findings present both challenges and opportunities. Manufacturers may need to innovate protective technologies or shading mitigation strategies to enhance the reliability of their products. This could lead to the development of smarter solar solutions that can adapt to varying environmental conditions, ultimately improving the overall performance of solar installations.
In summary, the research by Neha Kumari and her team not only highlights the vulnerabilities of PV technology to shading but also opens avenues for advancements in solar energy systems. As the industry continues to evolve, understanding these dynamics will be essential for maximizing efficiency and ensuring the long-term viability of solar energy as a sustainable solution.
