Performance Assessment of Three Different PV Modules as a Function of Solar Insolation in South Eastern Nigeria
P.E. Ugwuoke, C.E. Okeke

Abstract
Three silicon photovoltaic modules of Siemens product (55WP monocrystalline, 50WP polycrystalline and 10WP amorphous silicon modules) were simultaneously deployed outdoor to evaluate their performances as a function of solar radiation. The research was carried out at University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Lat. 60 52’ N, Long. 70 24’ E and 397 metres above sea level). The performances of the modules were evaluated in terms of their response variables (Voc, Vmax, Isc, Imax, Pmax, and Eff) as a function of global and diffuse irradiance. These response variables were generally observed to be directly proportional to irradiance but significant decrease in efficiency Eff, maximum voltage Vmax, open-circuit voltage Voc and fill factor FF was noticed at irradiances above 600W/m2. The correlation of Voc, Isc and Pmax with global and diffuse irradiance was performed using a second degree polynomials. Maximum efficiencies of 12.97%, 9.67% and 4.94% were achieved at irradiance of 600W/m2 for the monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous silicon modules respectively. However, at irradiance of 1000W/m2, the efficiencies dropped to 9.61%, 7.65% and 3.62% for the monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous silicon PV modules respectively. The maximum power outputs obtained at irradiance of 1000W/m2 are 37.52W, 28.84W and 6.94W for the monocrystalline, polycrystalline and amorphous silicon module.

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