Since factors such as installation location and angle will affect the output power of solar panels, solar panels do not perform equally well under all conditions. Additionally, the solar panel efficiency in generating electricity may vary depending on the type or model. But there are ways we can improve solar panel efficiency.
This article will introduce you to 7 tips to improve solar panel efficiency, as well as introduce the latest related technologies, so as to provide you with some reference for improving the power generation efficiency of solar panels.
Main content:
1. How to improve solar panel efficiency
① Purchase suitable battery panels
There are many types of solar panels. When it comes to the conversion efficiency, in addition to the effect of the inverters such as 2000w inverter or 3000w inverter, different types of solar panels can have different efficiencies even if they are the same size.
Typically, among solar panels, monocrystalline silicon panels have the highest power generation efficiency. This type of panel is arc-shaped and has uniform color, but its disadvantage is that it is bulky and expensive, and the installation process may be somewhat cumbersome.
On the other hand, the efficiency and power output of crystalline silicon panels depend on the purity of the silicon cells. If you prefer to be economical and have a large enough installation space, polycrystalline silicon panels are a good choice.
In addition to the type of solar panel, it helps if you can find panels that use less electricity for the best value. This can be done by determining the panel power capacity, checking the panel's energy conversion capabilities, and comparing it to other solar panel models.
② Regular cleaning
Solar panels have no moving parts, which means that users need little or no maintenance. However, they should actually be properly maintained if you want to improve solar panel efficiency.
Solar panels need to be cleaned on a regular basis, otherwise dust particles may accumulate on the surface and reduce efficiency. The frequency of cleaning may depend on factors such as the cost of cleaning and the frequency of rainfall in your location.
Crossing a year, dirt and dust may reduce the transmission efficiency of solar panels. The solar panels are more easily covered with dirt in the areas with low rainfall, and the probability of reducing transmission efficiency may increase. Therefore, solar panels should be cleaned at least once a year to avoid destruction of solar panels.
③ Suitable installation angle
If you want the solar panel to absorb the most sunlight during the day, install it in a south-facing position and keep it at a suitable angle. The slant of the solar panel may help to keep it neat and tidy, so the mounting angle is crucial. Factors such as dust, leaves and weather can affect solar panel efficiency. The right angle will minimise the impact of these obstacles on power generation and thus improve solar panel efficiency.
④ Reduce the number of devices
Another tip to improve solar panel efficiency is to reduce the number of devices used, using one device at a time whenever possible. Depending on the output power of the solar panel and the amount of energy used by the device, try to limit the use of various devices at the same time.
For example, don't run the dishwasher while using the washing machine. Also, don't leave lights on when the room is bright enough. All of this helps to reduce low voltage problems in the home solar power system and improve solar panel efficiency.
⑤ Avoid shading
Solar panels operate well in direct sunlight. If trees or other structures block the sunlight, solar panel output may be reduced. This is especially true if the panels use a type of series inverter that limits the output of the array to the strength of the weakest panel. Even if only a small portion of the solar panel is shaded, its output will still be affected.
To eliminate shading, remove or trim the trees around the solar panels. If it is not possible to remove the trees, consider using a power optimiser inverter. This may help improve the output of the unshaded portion of the solar panel. For further information, you can refer to the global top 10 best solar inverter brands.
⑥ Install solar concentrator
Solar concentrators maximize solar panel power by focusing sunlight. Concentrators use lenses or mirrors to focus sunlight on a receiver. Use a solar concentrator tracking system to capture more concentrated light to improve solar panel efficiency.
⑦ Professional installer
If installed properly, solar panels can maximize the absorption of solar energy and also generate more electricity. Therefore, professionals should be hired to install solar panels. The best solar panel installers are experienced and skilled in proper installation. In addition, they understand how installing solar panels can fulfil their full potential.
Solar panels are certainly a good investment. Installing solar panels can reduce your electricity bills, however, to get the most out of your solar panels and improve solar panel efficiency, just follow the tips above. In the event of any problems with their use, be sure to consult a professional to avoid any inconvenience.
2. New technology to improve solar panel efficiency
EtaVolt, a spin-off from NTU Singapore, has launched an innovative technology that can rejuvenate old solar panels and extend their lifespan. The technology, which has been extensively field-tested to work with about 90% of the world's existing solar panels, has been successfully commercialised and is ready for mass market introduction.
EtaVolt's technology is disruptive to the solar industry, especially in tropical regions such as Singapore where solar panels are rapidly degrading due to harsh environmental conditions.
- Technology features
① Regenerative technology:
EtaVolt's advanced regenerative technology is a revolution in the solar industry. While solar panels lose efficiency shortly after installation due to harsh environmental conditions, EtaVolt's technology rejuvenates panels by stimulating the material molecules through precise temperatures and intense light, allowing them to repair light and heat damage and prevent energy leakage.
② Coping with declining efficiency:
Traditionally, solar panels have lost up to 10% or more of their efficiency within the first year of installation, resulting in an estimated $2 billion in lost energy globally each year. EtaVolt's technology solves this problem by making solar panels more efficient.
③ Fully automated mobile device:
The new device developed by EtaVolt can automatically move up to 7.5 feet (2.3 metres) onto a solar panel, restoring up to 5% of the panel's field performance in less than five minutes. This fully automated process is efficient and convenient for both indoor and outdoor solar farms.
④ Wide applicability:
The technology is applicable to more than 90% of silicon off grid solar batteries on the market, including those containing boron, oxygen, defects and impurities. EtaVolt's technology is more affordable than the expensive solutions currently on the market and can easily restore the efficiency of solar panels in the field.
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