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

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.