AT: Solar panels

A decision regarding solar panels to power the lamp will require the consideration of several factors; price, efficiency and spatial constraints. Though the power required isn't a huge amount, the small size of the available solar space will require higher efficiency panels to ensure ample energy is generated. Price is also a consideration given the sheer amount of these street lamps that may be required.

There are a multitude of different solar panel types, with several sub groups developed to meet specific needs. After researching the various types, I narrowed my choices down to three different types of solar panel.

Thin Film Solar Cells (TFSC).

Advantages -

- Simplified, and cheaper, mass production.

- Bendable.

- High temperatures and shade have a lesser effect on power output.

Disadvantages -

- Lower power production. Efficiency 7-13% requiring a larger surface area.

- Deteriorate more rapidly than other panel types.

Mono-crystalline silicon solar cells.

Advantages -

- Highest efficiency rate of 15-20% due to high grade silicon construction.

- High efficiency leads to high space efficiency.

- Perform better than other panel types in low light situations.

- Long life, generally around 25 years.

Disadvantages -

- Peak performance in warm weather. Performance deteriorates in higher temperatures.

- If part of panel is covered in shade or dirt, entire panel stops producing power.

- Expensive.

- Wasteful production.

Poly-crystalline silicon solar cells.

Advantages -

- Silicon is poured into a mold, reducing both cost and waste.

- Customisable shapes.

Disadvantages -

- Lower efficiency than mono-crystalline panels, around 13-16%.

- Speckled blue aesthetic appears gives a less uniform appearance.

After weighing up the pros and cons for each type of solar panel, I decided upon Poly-crystalline silicon solar cells. They are cost effective, which is important given the potential scale of this project, and due to the poured silicon construction method, are able to shaped to suit the design. These two points proved to be pivotal in deciding on the type of solar paneling. Their efficiency rating, though slightly behind, is still very close to their mono-crystalline counterparts. For these reasons, I shall use these in my final design proposal.

Maehlum, M. (2015). Which solar panel type is best? Retrieved from http://energyinformative.org/best-solar-panel-monocrystalline-polycrystalline-thin-film/