Maximizing the Power Output of a Solar Photovoltaic Panel Using Fresnel lens Concentrator

This paper reports the performance of a solar photovoltaic module subjected to increased radiation from a Fresnel lens in a low concentration system. An experimental, comparative investigation of two photovoltaic modules was carried out. The test module was subjected to concentrated radiation from the Fresnel lens while the control module was directly exposed to the sun. Current-voltage characteristics of both modules were measured for different days and irradiance conditions. Module temperature and variations of irradiation received were equally measured. The results obtained confirmed that the short circuit current and the maximum power output of the test module were higher than those of the control module. This trend was observed for different levels of insolation ranging from ~158 W/m2 to ~1070 W/m2. The test module displayed an average increase in short circuit current of over 41% than that of the control module. Additionally, the test module with concentrated solar radiation from the Fresnel lens could produce between 32% and 56% more current at maximum power than the control module, depending on the amount of insolation received. The concept demonstrated in this study has a potential application in rapid battery charging during low solar irradiation and other functional applications where twice as much energy is needed in a short duration.