A Model Validatory Approach in Determining Solar Panel Tilting Angles and Orientations at the Brikama Environment of The Gambia

Abstract

This paper determines the solar panel optimal tilt angle and orientations at the Brikama environment of The Gambia. This was achieved by comparing mathematical model results with experimental data collected using a PV module (Model AP-120) manufactured by AstroPower, USA, and a single-axis tracker technology at the same location and months of the year. The experimental tilt angles obtained range from 5.1°-28.2° with an average angle of 14.8° while the mathematical model approach obtained the tilt angle to be within the range of 9.1°-22.3° with a mean value of 15.5°. The generated power analysis revealed that the peak power produced by the solar panel was recorded at an angle of 30° due South and the mean power gain from the orientation of the PV panel ranged from 3.6-48.1W. The mean power result suggests that, in comparison to a horizontal position, solar collecting efficiency is higher at the optimal tilt angle.