Course:VANT149/2025/Capstone/Science/Team18

Put Project Title Here

Optimizing Solar Panel Efficiency Under Varying Conditions

Abstract

This project investigates how solar panel efficiency is affected by changes in environmental conditions such as light intensity and panel angle. Using experimental data collected under different setups, the study identifies key factors that influence power output. We analyze trends and visualize performance differences to determine optimal configurations for energy production. Our findings highlight how even small adjustments in setup can significantly impact efficiency. Specifically, we found that a panel angle of 30 degrees under full sunlight produced the highest voltage output. The research underscores the potential for practical, low-cost improvements in solar energy systems and contributes to a broader understanding of renewable energy optimization for both residential and commercial use.

Biographies

Kevin Zhang is a first-year student in the Science program at the University of British Columbia. His research focuses on how different angles and lighting conditions affect the efficiency of photovoltaic solar panels. He is personally interested in this topic because he hopes to apply scientific thinking to real-world environmental challenges, especially in the area of renewable energy.