On Thursday, December 5, 2024, the College of Engineering at the University of Baghdad hosted the public defense of the master’s thesis by Sara Ali Taha from the Department of Energy Engineering. The thesis, titled “Performance Evaluation of Solar Photovoltaic System in the Energy Engineering Department in Baghdad City,” was held in Dr. Mahdi Hantoush Hall, under the supervision of Assist. Prof. Dr. Karim Hassan Ali.
Objective of the Thesis:
The study focused on evaluating the performance and efficiency of a small-scale energy system with a capacity of 3000 watts. The system used six polycrystalline solar panels exposed to natural sunlight and environmental conditions in Baghdad. Measurements were conducted over a period of six months, from January 1, 2024, to July 1, 2024, at the Energy Laboratory of the Energy Engineering Department. The panels were tested under different levels of solar radiation and unit temperatures, using advanced equipment such as the Prova 210 Solar Analyzer to measure key performance indicators, including voltage, current, output power, and temperature effects. During the testing period, the ambient temperature ranged from 12 to 50°C, and wind speed varied from 2 to 11 m/s.
Key Findings and Recommendations:
- The study identified several areas where the solar system’s performance could be improved:
- Cooling Techniques: Advanced cooling methods should be implemented to mitigate the negative effects of high temperatures on the performance of solar units, ensuring higher efficiency and reliability.
- Optimization of Panel Angles: The tilt angles and orientation of the solar panels should be optimized to capture more solar energy throughout the year, considering seasonal variations in sunlight.
- Use of Bifacial Solar Panels: It was recommended to use bifacial solar panels for better performance under Baghdad’s climate, as they offer improved energy capture from both sides of the panel.
After the public defense and the committee’s evaluation, Sara Ali Taha was awarded a Master’s degree in Energy Engineering with a grade of Good.
Discussion Committee Members:
- Chairman: Assist. Prof. Dr. Moyed Khalil Ibrahim
- Member: Assist. Prof. Dr. Adwiya Ali Hamza
- Member: Assist. Prof. Dr. Sarmad Taleb
