Performance Efficiency of a Silicon Based Photovoltaic Cell Operating under Ambient Conditions in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

The use of photovoltaic cells (solar cells) for generation of electricity is no longer uncommon in Nigeria; this is because solar energy is undoubtedly part of the solution to the problem of dwindling fossil-fuel reserves. Various technologies of photovoltaic systems are imported from different countries and are being used locally with little or no information of their appraisal and field performance. In this work the performance efficiency of a silicon based solar panel operating under ambient conditions has been determined in an experiment using an off the shelf PV module. Measurements were taken while varying the direction of the panel, the tilt angle and illuminance during the day. Results show that PV installations within Benue State and most areas within the north-Central geopolitical region will perform optimally when installed at 15⁰ in the direction of the south. Apart from outlining the efficiency limiting factors, this work also provides an efficiency chart with data that can be used for solar installation.