Photovoltaic Efficiency
Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and their efficency is exploredCopyright (photo) 2008 Sean Hauze. Used with permission. (sun clipart) Copyright © 2004 Microsoft Corporation, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399 USA. All rights reserved.
In lesson 1, students study the solar angles involved in maximizing PV power generation. In lesson 2, panel temperature is compared with power output. Lesson 3 deals with balancing voltage and current output to create the largest power output (using Ohm's law and the electrical power equation [power = voltage x current]). In lesson 4, students examine the effect of concentrating solar radiation on PV panels.
The four activities use mini PV panels, multimeters and 100-watt lamps—items that are re-usable for all activities. Refer to the attached Solar Panel Source Information (PDF)and Multimeter Source Information (PDF).
To design a long-lasting, safe and efficient photovoltaic system, engineers take into account many factors that affect power generation. Trade-offs are involved in every efficiency measure, and the best designs accommodate specific environmental and economic conditions. To design optimal PV systems, engineers account for all these factors and how they interact.
- Photovoltaic Efficiency