Study on the performance of different types of PV modules in Singapore

To date, solar energy has been accepted worldwide as a high potential alternative energy. Current research and markets have shown that solar photovoltaics (PV) is amongst the fastest growing and most promising forms of renewable energy for electricity generation. Solar energy demand has grown at about 25% per annum over the past 15 years, whilst solar energy (PV) prices have declined on average 4% per annum over the past 15 years. Progressive increase in conversion efficiencies and manufacturing economies of scale are the underlying drivers. Referring to the distribution of solar radiation all over the world, Singapore has a very good potential in applications of solar energy. This paper examines the status of the solar PV technology and feasibility of solar energy in Singapore through the case study. The analytic results in this paper are obtained from an 8.88 kW grid-connected solar PV system. The solar system consists of three types of solar PVs, i.e. 2.7 kW monocrystalline silicon, 3.06 kW polycrystalline silicon and 3.12 kW thin film silicon PVs. This paper addresses the efficiencies of different solar PVs and the impact of radiation on PV system operation. Furthermore, the feasibility of solar energy in Singapore is also discussed.