Performance Evaluation of a Solar Module at Ilorin

Abstract

The performance of an 85W, 18V solar panel was investigated under tropical condition at Ilorin, (latitude 8⁰ 32^l N and longitude 4⁰ 34^l E). The variation of the open-circuit output voltage of the solar panel with time in different months; December, March and April representative of dusty, clear and cloudy sky conditions were studied. Results showed that the terminal voltage of the solar panel depends on the time of the day and the weather condition. From 7:00hr to 18:00hr, the terminal voltage of the solar panel ranges from 15V to 19V. A 12V 26Ah deep-cycle AGM battery storage battery, which is essential to store the electrical energy, was fully charged with the solar panel within 10 hours at this location.