DIMENSIONAL AND ENERGY RATIOS IN PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS

SECTIONAL STUDY IN THE LIMA MARKET (2024)

Abstract

When dimensioning photovoltaic systems, the accuracy and efficiency of the complete system are usually sought. The system's overall performance and efficiency are typically assessed by taking into account energy demand, solar irradiation, and the technological characteristics of its various components. However, for owners, architects, and builders, the geometrical magnitudes of the panels (length, width, and the resulting area they will occupy) are decisive in the estimation and architectural design phase, during which the energy demand may not have been defined, but the aim is to include the PV system in the building's design. The objective of the study is to determine existing ranges and correlations between power and solar panel area as a reference point for the architectural design phase, providing a basis for considering photovoltaic systems based on the available roof area. To this end, technical information was collected on the different types of panels offered in Lima city, complemented by surveys of dealers and installers, taking into account the main brands and models on offer. Using technical data sheets linked to the panels, correlations between available geometric dimensions, power ranges and possible efficiencies per panel are sought. In this way, there is a wide range of geometric dimensions, however, the 1.50m² threshold divides two groups of panels, one with lower efficiency which tends to generate less energy and the second group with more efficient panels and a larger format. Similarly, the width is a dimension that shows little variation, with comparable measurements and similarities observed across different brands and panel capacities. Other related aspects such as frame thickness, reliability and warranty of the panels could be studied in further research, as well as estimation for projects with the potential to include PV installations at the available roof area in the design phase.