MITIGATING EFFICIENCY LOSS IN PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS UNDER PARTIAL SHADING

Abstract

This experimental study examines the effects of partial shading on the performance of mono-crystalline and polycrystalline photovoltaic (PV) panels. Three shading materials—white leaf, tree leaf, and transparent paper—were selected based on their varying transmittance levels. Shading was applied to 20%, 50%, and 100% of the cell area, and key electrical parameters were measured under each condition. The study found that the degree of performance degradation is primarily influenced by both the shading material’s transmittance and the shading percentage. Mono-crystalline and polycrystalline panels responded differently to shading, with mono-crystalline panels generally showing greater sensitivity. Interestingly, the position of the shaded cell did not significantly affect output performance. These results emphasize the importance of understanding both the optical properties of shading materials and shading extent in real-world PV installations to better predict and mitigate energy losses.