Exploring the Impact of Shading on the Efficiency of Photovoltaic Panels - Part II

The use solar photovoltaic technology, as one of renewable sources for energy production, is currently experiencing a strong development all over the world, being a sustainable, environmentally friendly, affordable, and easy to implement solution. The amount of energy produced, and the efficiency of photovoltaic panels are influenced by a series of factors that can be intrinsic, external, or environmental. To increase the efficiency of photovoltaic panels and their lifespan, it is important that the parameters with a direct influence be taken into consideration. These influencing factors include ambient temperature, solar panel temperature, direct solar irradiation, wind speed, altitude, atmospheric pressure, and local stressors such as shading, dust accumulation and pollution. Among them shading has been identified as a significant concern. Shading, either permanent or temporary, can significantly reduce the electricity generation capacity of photovoltaic panels. This article aims to investigate the impact of shading on a photovoltaic panel's performance, focusing on parameters such as output power, voltage and electrical current, as well as its efficiency. Through a series of computational simulations and experimental investigations, the research quantifies the impact of partial cell shading while also exploring photovoltaic panels shading mitigation strategies.