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Solar Energy Science Fair Project

Sunlight Angle and Solar Cell Efficiency

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Sunlight Angle and Solar Cell Efficiency | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
Does the angle of a solar cell change how much power it produces? When sunlight hits a panel straight on versus at a steep slant, the energy output shifts. You mount seven identical solar cells on wooden blocks cut to different angles. At noon on a clear day, you measure the voltage and current from each cell. The angles range from perpendicular to nearly flat. The cell aimed straight at the sun produces the most power. Output drops steadily as the angle moves away from perpendicular.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that the power output generated by a solar cell will be highest when the solar cell is positioned perpendicular to the direction of sunlight.

Method & Materials

You will use 7 polycrystalline solar cells, 7 wooden cubes, a protractor, double-sided tape, a digital voltmeter, an ammeter, and a resistor to measure the power output of the solar cells at different angles.
You will need 7 polycrystalline solar cells, 7 wooden cubes, a saw, a protractor, double-sided tape, a digital voltmeter, an ammeter, and a resistor.

Results

The results show that the solar cell mounted perpendicular to the sunlight has the highest power output and this output continues to decline as the angle reduces to zero. This proves the hypothesis to be correct.

Why do this project?

This science project is interesting because it shows how the angle of the sun affects the power output of a solar cell. It also demonstrates how a solar tracker can be used to optimize the performance of a solar cell.

Also Consider

Consider repeating the experiment using amorphous solar cells. Also, try to simulate real life as much as possible by introducing elements such as wind, water (rain) and ice to the test environment.

Full project details

Additional information and source material for this project are available below.

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