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Experimental optimization of stacked solar PV panels: Strategic positioning and reduced footprint for power maximization

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  • Balachandran, Gurukarthik Babu
  • Ramachandran, Muthu Eshwaran
  • Palpandian, M.
  • David, Prince Winston

Abstract

Solar energy is a clean, non-polluting energy source. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are expected to play a crucial role in future electricity generation. This study explores innovative strategies to maximize PV panel output by optimizing panel positioning and reducing surface area. Through controlled experiments, different PV panel positions were analyzed to determine their impact on power generation. The study also examined the trade-off between reducing panel area and maintaining energy efficiency. Results indicate that both panel positioning and area reduction significantly influence energy generation. The highest output power was achieved with a flat-position PV array at a 93 cm variance using Series-Parallel (Se-P) interconnection (156 W), followed by 77 cm (106 W) and 62 cm (135 W) configurations. These findings provide valuable insights for designing efficient PV systems, particularly for space-constrained environments. Unlike previous studies, this work systematically investigates the synergy between panel positioning and area optimization, offering a novel approach to enhancing PV system performance. The results highlight the practical applications of optimized PV configurations in urban areas and regions with limited land availability, contributing to the advancement of sustainable solar energy solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Balachandran, Gurukarthik Babu & Ramachandran, Muthu Eshwaran & Palpandian, M. & David, Prince Winston, 2025. "Experimental optimization of stacked solar PV panels: Strategic positioning and reduced footprint for power maximization," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 248(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:248:y:2025:i:c:s096014812500761x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.123099
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yu, Jie & Wang, Qiong & Zhang, Xi & Liu, Chuan, 2026. "Optimizing photovoltaic energy sharing: A novel framework based on Stackelberg games in distribution networks," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 256(PA).

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