Evaluation of a hybrid system to improve the electrical efficiency in photovoltaic panels

Pontificia Universidad Javeriana Cali, College of Engineering, Cali, Colombia

^* Corresponding author: jcvalencia22@hotmail.com

Abstract

This project shows a photovoltaic hybrid system (PHS) that follows the sun using electronic and mechanic devices and reduces the solar panel’s temperature with water in order to increase the energy obtained. The system was designed and implemented with a 1-axis solar tracker system and a water cooling system. PHS allows solar radiation beams to fall almost perpendicularly and decreases the temperature of the solar panel. Finally, its performance is compared against a traditional fixed photovoltaic system (FPS) oriented at 15° facing south. Experiments were made during only seven days in a year between December 1st and December 19th of 2017 in Guadalajara de Buga, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Tests consisted of using the same electric loads at 20%, 40% and so on until 100% of the total power capacity of the solar panels. Results points out that electrical efficiency of the PHS increased 5.03% compared to the FPS on the same environmental conditions. Finally, PHS shows daily additional average power between 37% and 40% when it is loaded with electric loads at 80% and 100%.