30-09-2017, 12:46 PM
Most solar panels are placed flat on the roofs because they are designed to take advantage of solar energy when the sun is directly above their heads. However, when the angle of the sun's rays hitting the panel changes, traditional panels quickly become less efficient.
To overcome this inefficiency, scientists have been experimenting with a variety of new solar cell technologies, including nanoscale 3D structures to trap light and increase the amount of solar energy absorbed. However, in a new study in Energy and Environmental Sciences, a team of researchers at MIT has taken a different approach by changing the shape of solar panels. The researchers were able to develop a 3D shape that allows 20 times more power output.
By exploring a variety of 3D configurations using a computer algorithm and testing these under different latitudes, seasons and climate, they were able to build three different 3D solar modules. These were then tested in the MIT laboratory building, with researchers measuring their performance. These 3D configurations resulted in an increase in output power ranging from twice to more than 20 times that of a flat solar panel with the same base area.
By going vertical, the panels were able to collect more sunlight when the sun is closer to the horizon, generating a more uniform output over time. This uniformity was maintained even as the stations changed and even when parts of the panels were blocked by clouds or shadows.
Despite the increased cost of production of 3D modules, researchers believe that their increased energy output would help offset this additional cost. In addition, their use would also ensure that the electrical supply of solar energy sources is more predictable and allows solar power plants to integrate further into the electricity grid.
To overcome this inefficiency, scientists have been experimenting with a variety of new solar cell technologies, including nanoscale 3D structures to trap light and increase the amount of solar energy absorbed. However, in a new study in Energy and Environmental Sciences, a team of researchers at MIT has taken a different approach by changing the shape of solar panels. The researchers were able to develop a 3D shape that allows 20 times more power output.
By exploring a variety of 3D configurations using a computer algorithm and testing these under different latitudes, seasons and climate, they were able to build three different 3D solar modules. These were then tested in the MIT laboratory building, with researchers measuring their performance. These 3D configurations resulted in an increase in output power ranging from twice to more than 20 times that of a flat solar panel with the same base area.
By going vertical, the panels were able to collect more sunlight when the sun is closer to the horizon, generating a more uniform output over time. This uniformity was maintained even as the stations changed and even when parts of the panels were blocked by clouds or shadows.
Despite the increased cost of production of 3D modules, researchers believe that their increased energy output would help offset this additional cost. In addition, their use would also ensure that the electrical supply of solar energy sources is more predictable and allows solar power plants to integrate further into the electricity grid.