The focus of this thesis is on solar energy and specifically how to optimise the energy
yields from photovoltaic panels. Consideration is given as to how this energy is generated
and where losses most commonly occur. Methods of optimisation of performance and mean
time between failures are investigated.
The theory behind PV generation is discussed and electrical properties and device
efficiencies defined. Methods of typical power optimisation in the field of photovoltaics are
investigated along with recent and current research into this area.
The specific research focuses in on the design of an experiment to test and define
performance parameters for PV cells. Sensors are chosen with consideration to the further
development of power optimisation and condition monitoring systems. N interface was
designed with in LabVIEW and the sensors calibrated to ensure accurate results were
obtained
The PV cell performance is then tested under various different conditions. Losses in
performance due to various different changes are identified. Finally it’s performance in
considered against the use of maximum power point tracking and the impact of ignoring this
as a method of power optimisation.