Comparative Analysis of Solar Panels and their Characteristics

Abstract:

The global shift towards renewable energy has intensified interest in solar photo-voltaic as a clean and sustainable energy source, particularly in regions like Nigeria, where energy reliability remains a critical issue. However, selecting the most suitable solar panel type for diverse climatic conditions remains a challenge due to significant variability in panel performance. This study aimed to address this gap by conducting a comparative analysis of monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels under real-world conditions across three distinct Nigerian locations: Oleh, Ughelli, and Uyo. The methodology involved mounting panels at tilt angles of 15° and 45°, recording performance metrics such as voltage, current, and power output using pyranometers and a digital multimeter. Data were analyzed comparatively using Python and Microsoft Excel to assess the impact of environmental factors and tilt angles on panel efficiency. Results revealed that monocrystalline panels consistently outperformed polycrystalline counterparts, particularly at a 45° tilt angle, which optimized solar energy capture during peak sunlight hours. These findings underscore the importance of tilt angle adjustments and panel selection in enhancing energy efficiency in tropical regions. The study concludes that adopting monocrystalline panels with optimized tilt angles presents a viable strategy for maximizing solar energy generation in Nigeria, contributing to sustainable energy solutions.