Enhancement of Monocrystalline Photovoltaic Performance Using a Reflector Monitored by the Internet of Things (IoT)

The irradiance peak condition, the performance of the monocrystalline photovoltaic does not reach the optimum state due to the power losses. There are many ways to decrease power losses; one of them is using a reflector. In this work, the solar panel shelter has been built to support eco-friendly electricity in the campus area. To improve the efficiency of the solar panel shelter, which is using monocrystalline photovoltaic, the reflector, as mentioned before, is applied. On the other hand, the off-grid system of monocrystalline photovoltaic is monitored by Blynk Apps. All of the parameters such as voltage, current, the intensity of light could be real-time monitored by applying the Internet of Things (IoT). The difference in efficiency between data with and without a reflector is significant. The maximum difference in efficiency is 20.6%, where the efficiency of monocrystalline photovoltaic with a reflector is 27.86% and without a reflector is 7.16%. This condition occurred in the midday. Hence, the user of a reflector on solar panel shelter helps reach the optimum performance of monocrystalline photovoltaic in irradiance peak conditions.