Indoor Photovoltaic System

Solar energy is the main source from which all other renewable energies derived from.However,raw solar energy is mainly divided into two parts:photovoltaics and concentrated solar power.Many countries are investing in adapting PV technology due to its simplicity in converting energy directly from light to electricity.However,PV panels carry several disadvantages that limit their operation.They suffer from low efficiencies when compared to other renewable energy resources.These inefficiencies are related to both external and internal effects.Not all of the energy is converted from light to electricity by the PV material.Some energy is dissipated as heat.Also,external effects such as a hot environment,shading,humidity,and dust could further hinder the performance of the panels.This project explores a novel idea by creating an indoor PV cylinder that functions using sunlight transmitted via fiber optics.The design involves concentrating sunlight using a solar collector,and using fiber optics as a light source inside the PV cylinder.The report illustrates a 3D model of the design,as well as a physical functioning model.Several tests were run to determine the behavior of the different components.These tests included the light wave distribution conveyed as well as the intensity of light collected and transmitted through the system.In addition,the behavior of the PV cylinder was tested and an output power has been generated from the built system.The advantages of the system include that the area of PV is reduced,as the system is three-dimensional.In addition,the PV functions in a sealed environment free from outdoor factors that hinder the performance.Disadvantages of the system is the high initial cost,which may be reduced in the future by substituting some components with cost effective solutions.