Application of Genetic Algorithm to Solar Panel Efficiency; A Case Study of Port-Harcourt Metropolis

Year 2018, Volume: 4 Issue: 2, 60 - 69, 27.06.2018

Roland Uhunmwangho Berebon Victor Leesi Ameze Big-alabo

Abstract

This study focuses on the evaluation of solar panel efficiency used
within Port Harcourt environment. A major factor affecting the efficiency of
solar panels is the difference in region or weather and the ability of the
solar panel to convert incident radiation into electrical energy. Solar panels
have varying efficiency levels under different weather conditions. Most times
solar panels fall short of expected efficiencies. It is therefore important to
have adequate knowledge of the performance characteristics of a panel under
specific weather to ensure maximum output. For this research work, the panel
evaluated is a 125W Polycrystalline solar panel made of Gallium Arsenide. The
efficiency of the panel is calculated and recorded. The weather data for Port-Harcourt
is collected from the center for data collation Rivers State University.  The peak radiation value obtained from the
weather data for the year under consideration is used to evaluate the
efficiency and Genetic Algorithm is used to determine the optimal parameter of
the cells making up the panel to obtain an optimized cell to improve the
efficiency of the panel. To do this the cell initial properties is extracted
and tabulated genetic algorithm is then used to improve this properties
achieving better efficiency in the process.

Keywords

Genetic Algorithm, Solar Panels, Weather, Optimization, Efficiency

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