Optimization of solar photovoltaic power generation systems for optimal usage: A case study of some towns in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic power generation systems often operate below capacity due to a number of factors, among which are the non-optimum tilt angle of installation of PV panels and the high temperature of PV panels. This study employed a survey method to investigate the effect of PV panel tilt angle and temperature on solar PV power output at fifty solar PV power generation points across some towns in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Direct measurements of the power output of PV panels installed at fixed tilt angles and surface temperature were made and optimal power output was determined by their performance ratio based on these parameters. The performance ratio, which indicates the efficiency of operation of these systems, was found to lie between 0.607 and 0.851, with only 18% of the installations operating within optimal levels. The installations found to have a performance ratio above 80% had tilt angles of 9.6º and 10º. A high negative correlation coefficient of -0.8608 was established between the performance ratio of the PV systems and the tilt angle of PV panel installation, while a weaker negative correlation coefficient of -0.149 was established between the performance ratio and PV panel temperature. This study established that solar PV power generation systems will be optimised for optimal usage when
PV panels are installed at tilt angle of 9.6º in Akwa Ibom State, and the temperature of the area does not significantly affect the performance ratio and optimal operation of the PV system.