Underwater performance of thin-film photovoltaic module immersed in shallow and deep waters along with possible applications

Abstract

This article presents the experimental results of the underwater performance of amorphous silicon (a-Si) thin-film photovoltaic (TFPV) module. Electrical performance characteristics (current, voltage, power input, power output, and power conversion efficiency) of a-Si TFPV are evaluated considering the two installation conditions of Submerged Photovoltaics (SPV): shallow and deep waters. Experimental results showed that the a-Si TFPV could convert sun energy into electricity even in underwater environments. It is observed that there is a little drop in power outputs in deep waters than to shallow waters due to the variation in incident sunlight on to the photovoltaic (PV) module. Based on the observations, few possible applications for underwater PV system are explored. The article is concluded by highlighting few critical points for future research. Keywords: Power conversion efficiency, PV performance, Floating photovoltaics, Sub-merged PV, PV in deep waters, Underwater PV applications