“Optimizing performance characteristics of solar panel ... fileA Major-Project Report on “Optimizing performance characteristics of solar panel using Biomimetics” Submitted in

A Major-Project Report on

“Optimizing performance characteristics ofsolar panel using Biomimetics”Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of

Bachelor of Engineering in

INDUSTRIAL AND PRODUCTION ENGINEERING

Submitted byManjunath Mattikoppa 2BV14IP024

Madhusudan Bijapur 2BV14IP019

Shivling Tubachi 2BV14IP044

Rahul Lamani 2BV14IP041

Under the Guidance of

Prof. Gururaj Fattepur

K L E Society’s

B.V.B COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

HUBLI-31

Department of Industrial & Production Engineering

(2017-2018)

ABSTRACT

In this fast moving world, there have been a lot of discoveries and

inventions happening all over the world. People have been finding out solutions to

the problems which have been prevailing in the world since many years. And many of

the solutions have been found by the so called common man. It is the dedication

and reasoning which help to achieve something, whether it is a solution to the

problem or analyzing a problem.

Every problem in the world is sure to have a solution, but what it needs is

approach towards it. A problem should be analyzed with proper designs and

methodologies to come up with the best possible solution. And engineers are the one who

make it possible. With the thorough knowledge of science and mathematics, it isn't

difficult to find the optimum solution.

The methodologies which are applied to the problem solving process should in

anordered manner. The appropriate steps have to be followed so as to reach the

target. And since the engineers are taught the same, they are the best to get through the

solution in the stipulated time assigned to them and increase the efficiency of the solution.

We, in this project, have tried to find the solution to a simple problem existing in

this hectic world. And we have tried our best to maintain all the respects of the

Engineering Design strategy so that we could come up with the best possible

solution. And we have tried our best to fight out the identified problem.

Table of contents

Sl.No Description Page No.

1. Introduction1.1 Introduction to Product Design. 1

1.2 Significance of Product Design in recent technology 2

1.3 Energy and its energy sources. 4

1.4 Introduction to solar cells. 8

1.5 Introduction to Biomimetics. 12

1.6 Objectives 14

1.7 Constraints 16

1.8 Functions 16

2. Literature review2.1 Literature survey on Solar energy.

17

2.2 Journal paper on Solar Power Analysis Based On Light Intensity. 17

2.3 Journal paper on Effect of temperature on the efficiency of solar panel. 182.4 Journal paper on Use of Biomimicry in industrial design 182.5 A study on Moth eye antireflection property to reduce reflection. 192.6 A study on Natural convection system for maintaining low temperature. 192.7 A journal paper on Sunflower as tracking system. . 20

3.Methodology3.1 Research Plan

23

4. Design calculations4.1 Measuring PV Efficiency 254.1.2 Calculations for stand height. 26

5 . Experimental plan5.1 Experiment methodology

28

5.2 Tabulation for Solar panel readings 28

5.3 ANOVA 33

5.4 Table for different glasses readings 34

5.5 Table for reading of the solar panel with tracking,cooling 36

and fresnel lens5.6 Results 38

Case Study 39

REFERENCES 40

APPENDIX 41

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Description Page No.

1 Book 3

2 Types of energy 4

3 Ice Harbor dam 6

4 Wind energy systems 7

5 Solar hot water systems 8

6 Net electricity generation 8

7 Solar cell 9

8 PV installed capacity 10

9 Bionic car 12

10 Japanese Bullet Train 13

11 Kangaroos Emulation 13

12 Glass wings 13

13 Bionic Photovoltaic Panels 14

14 Objective tree 15

15 Moth eye structure 19

16 Tracking system experimental setup 27

17 Cooling system experimental setup 27

18 Experimentation with normal solar panel 29

19 Experimentation with square lens 29

20 Experimentation with window glass 30

21 Experimentation with Bubble wrap 31

22 Experimentation with Fresnel lens 31

23 Experimentation with Cooling System 3224 Box Plot 34

25 Individual Value Plot 35

26 ANOVA Result 35

27 Reading Of The Solar Panel With Tracking, Cooling And Fresnel Lens 37

List of Tables

Table No. Description Page No.

1 Normal solar panel readings 28

2 Square lens readings 29

3 Window glass readings 30

4 Bubble wrap readings 30

5 Fresnel lens readings 31

6 Cooling system readings 32

7 Solar panel readings 33

8 Different Glasses Readings 34

9 Reading of The Solar Panel With Tracking, Cooling And Fresnel Lens 36

OPTIMIZING PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF SOLAR PANEL USING

BIOMIMETICS 2017-18

Dept of Industrial and Production Engineering Page 1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction to Product Design.

A product is a set attributes offered to consumers to full fill their needs or requirements.

In other words, a product acts as a vehicle which helps in providing required benefits to user.

Product development is the set of activities beginning with the perception of a market

opportunity and ending in the production, sale and delivery of a product.

1.1.1 Characteristics of a successful product design:

From the perspective of the investors in a for-profit enterprise, successful product results in

products that can be produced and sold profitably. The characteristics involves

● Product quality: It determines the efficiency of the product and may or may not meet

the customer needs. If the product meets the customer needs then it is said to posses

high standards of quality else the product will be considered as a low quality.

● Product cost: It determines the profit incurred by the firm for a particular sales

volume and a particular sales price. Higher the cost of manufacturing lower it is

economical to the customers.

● Development time: It determines the responsiveness of the firm to develop the

product within a shortest period of time more efficiently.

● Development capability: The asset that a firm can use to develop products more

effectively and economically in the future.

High performance with the above mentioned dimensions will ultimately lead to economic

success of the company. Pollution and environment are the significant parts of the product

design in present as well as in future.

Roles in product design:

There are three major roles in any product design,

● Marketing: It is the mediate interaction between the firm and the customers.

Marketing always focuses on identification of product opportunities and identifying

customer needs. It sets target prices, launch and promotion of the product.


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● Design: It plays a lead role in defining the physical form of the product to best meet

the customer requirements. The design function includes engineering

design(mechanical, electrical, simulation, etc.) and industrial design(asthetics, user

interfaces).

● Manufacturing: It is primarily responsible for designing, operating and co-

ordinating the production system in order to produce the product. It also includes

purchasing, distribution and installation. This collection of activities are also known

as supply chain.

1.1.2 Challenges in product design:

Designing great product is hard but not impossible. Some challenges that makes the product

design challenging are-

● Dynamics: Technologies improve every second, customer preferences changes,

competitors introduce new product. Decision making of constant change is a

formidable task.

● Details: Details of each component to be used in the product is required and

decisions to tackle various problems during the product design has to be taken

depending on the details obtained.

● Time pressure: Any difficult problem in product design can be easily manageable it

there is no time bound. But product design decisions should be made quickly without

or without complete information.

● Team diversity: Successful design requires many people with different skills and

talents. The design team should involve a wide range of people with different training,

experience, perspectives and personalities.

● Team spirit: The product design teams are highly motivated and cooperative groups.

The main aim of the team members is to focus on designing the product.

1.2 Significance of Product Design in recent technology.

To sell the product effectively and economically, the product needs to be well designed,

which also involves packaging. Product packaging is the first thing that the customers

inspects about. Many people take purchasing decisions primarily on product design,

especially when there are multiple products of same type. Great product design executes both


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needs and desires of the customers. In to days word markets are flooded with similar products

but the only thing differentiates between them is the design of the product.

Below is the example to justify the significance of product design:

Figure number 1.1: Book (Source: Internet)

We all have read the books but all of them where of same design, but there was innovation made

by means of product design which involves the cover of the book in the form of a suit. This

attracted the customers to buy the book.

The Power of product Design offers an introduction and a practical guide to product

innovation, integrating the key topics that are necessary for the design of sustainable and

energy-efficient products using sustainable energy technologies.

Product innovation in sustainable energy technologies is an interdisciplinary field. In

response to its growing importance and the need for an integrated view on the development

of solutions, this text addresses the functional principles of various energy technologies next

to the latest design processes and innovation methods.

From the perspective of product design applications, engineer gets clear explanations of

technologies that are significant for product integration, such as batteries, photovoltaic solar

energy, fuel cells, small wind turbines, human power, energy saving lighting, thermal energy

technologies in buildings, and piezoelectric energy conversions. The design processes and

innovation methods presented in this project include various approaches ranging from

technical, societal and creative methods that can be applied in different stages of the design

process.


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1.3 Energy and its energy sources.

Energy is the capacity to do work. Energy comes in various forms, such as motion, heat,

light, electrical, chemical, nuclear energy, and gravitational. The classification of energy into

different ‘‘types’’ often follows the boundaries of the fields of study in the natural sciences.

For example, chemical energy is the kind of potential energy stored in chemical bonds, and

nuclear energy is the energy stored in interactions between the particles in the atomic

nucleus. Microscopic forms of energy are related to the molecular structure of a system and

they are independent of outside reference frames.

1.3.1 Types of energy.

Primary and secondary types of energy are the two main types as shown in Fig.3

Primary energy is extracted or captured directly from the environment, while the secondary

energy is converted from the primary energy in the form of electricity or fuel. Distinguishing

the primary and secondary energy sources are important in the energy balances to count and

record energy supply, transformations, and losses.

Figure number 1.2: Energy Transformation (Source: Internet)


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1.3.2 Renewable Energy Resources

Renewable energy comes from natural resources and are naturally replenished. Major

renewable energy sources are:

• Hydroelectric

• Wind

• Solar energy

Renewable energy comes directly from the sun, or from heat generated deep within the earth.

In 2017, about 19% of global final energy consumption came from renewables, with 13%

coming from traditional biomass, which is mainly used for heating, and 3.2% from

hydroelectricity. Other renewables, such as small hydro, biomass, wind, solar, geothermal,

and biofuels contributed around 2.7% and are growing rapidly. The share of renewables in

electricity generation is around 18%, with 15% of global electricity coming from

hydroelectricity and 3% from new renewables. Climate change concerns, high oil prices, and

government support are leading to increase in renewable energy usage and

commercialization. Consequently, between 2012 and 2017, worldwide renewable energy

capacity grew at rates of 10–60% annually creating businesses and employment. Renewable

energy replaces conventional fuels in four distinct areas: power generation, hot water/space

heating, transport fuels, and rural energy services.

New and emerging renewable energy technologies are still under development and include

cellulosic ethanol, hot-dry-rock geothermal power, and ocean energy. Renewable energy

generally gets cheaper in the long term, while fossil fuels 42 2 Energy and Energy Types

generally get more expensive. Fossil fuel technologies are more mature, while renewable

energy technologies are being rapidly improved to increase the efficiency of renewable

energy and reduce its cost. In rural and remote areas, transmission and distribution of energy

generated from fossil fuels can be difficult and expensive; therefore producing renewable

energy locally can offer a viable alternative.


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1) Hydroenergy:

Hydroenergy is derived from the force or energy of moving water. Most hydroelectric energy

comes from the potential energy of dammed water driving a water turbine and generator. The

power extracted from the water depends on the volume and on the difference in height

between the source and the water’s outflow. This height difference is called the head. The

amount of potential energy in water is proportional to the head. To deliver water to a turbine

while maintaining pressure arising from the head, a large pipe called a penstock may be used.

In 1878, the world’s first house to be powered with hydroelectricity was in Northumberland,

England. The old Schoelkopf Power Station near Niagara Falls in the US began to produce

electricity in 1881.

One of the major advantages of hydroelectricity is the elimination of fuel. Because there is

no fuel combustion, there is little air pollution in comparison with fossil fuel plants and

limited thermal pollution compared with nuclear plants. Hydroelectric plants also tend to

have longer economic lives than fuel-fired power generation, with some plants now in service

which were built 50–100 years ago. Operating labor cost is also usually low, as plants are

automated and need few personnel on site during normal operation. The sale of electricity

from the station may cover the construction costs after 5–8 years of full operation.

Hydroelectric usually refers to large-scale hydroelectric dams. Micro hydro systems typically

produce up to 100 kW of power. Hydro systems without dam derive kinetic energy from

rivers and oceans. Ocean energy includes marine current power, ocean thermal energy

conversion, and tidal power. Figure 4 shows the Ice Harbor dam in the US.

Figure number 1.3: Ice Harbour dam (Source: Internet)


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2) Wind Energy:

The Earth is unevenly heated by the sun and the differential heating drives a global atmospheric

convection system reaching from the earth’s surface to the stratosphere. Most of the energy stored in

these wind movements can be found at high altitudes where continuous wind speeds of over 160 km/h

(99 mph) occur. To assess the frequency of wind speeds at a particular location, a probability

distribution function is often fitted to the observed data. Wind power is a totally renewable energy

source with no greenhouse gas emissions, but due to its unpredictability, has problems integrating

with national grids.

Figure number 1.4: Wind energy systems (Source: Internet)

3) Solar Energy:

Solar energy is derived from the sun through the form of solar radiation. Solar powered

electrical generation relies on photovoltaics and heat engines. Other solar applications

includes space heating and cooling through solar architecture, daylighting, solar hot water,

solar cooking, and high temperature process heat for industrial purposes. Solar technologies

are broadly characterized as either passive solar or active solar depending on the way they

capture, convert and distribute solar energy:

Active solar techniques include the use of solar thermal collectors to harness the energy.

Some active solar techniques include solar process heat by commercial and industrial

buildings, space heating/cooling, and water heating.

Passive solar systems rely on gravity and the tendency for water to naturally circulate as it is

heated. Passive solar techniques orient buildings to the Sun, select materials with favorable

thermal mass or light dispersing properties, and design spaces that naturally circulate air.


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Figure number 1.5: Solar hot water systems (Source: Internet)

1.3.3 Net electricity generation by energy sources(in trillion kilowatts):

Figure number 1.6: Net electricity generation (Source: Internet)

(https://www.businesstoday.in/magazine/cover-story/the-environment-india-is-an-ideal-

country-for-solar-energy/story/227500.html)

1.4 Introduction to solar cells.

A solar cell is a photovoltaic device, that generates voltage when light rays from the sun

falls on it. Photovoltaic effect was proposed by Alexander-Edmond Becquerel in the year

1839. The first photovoltaic device was built using a Si pn junction by Russell Ohl in the

year 1939.


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1.4.1 Working principle of solar cell:

A solar cell is a pn junction diode. The schematic diagram of solar cell is shown in figure

5.The n region is heavily doped and thin so this allows the light to penetrate easily. The p

region is lightly doped. This makes most of the depletion region lie in the p side. The

penetration of light depends on the wavelength of the light. The absorption coefficient

increases as the wavelength decreases. Electron hole pairs(EHP) are created in the depletion

region and due to the built in potential and electric field, electrons move to the n region and

the holes to the p region. When there is application of external load, the extra electrons travel

through the load to recombine with excess holes. Electrons and holes are also generated with

the p and n regions. The shorter wavelength of light are absorbed in the n region and the

Figure number 1.7 : Solar cell(Source: nptel).

longer wavelengths are absorbed in the bulk of the p region. The carriers are extracted by

metal electrodes on either side. A finger electrode is used on the atop to make the electrical

contact, so that there is sufficient surface for the light to penetrate.

1.4.1 Significance of solar cell.

Whenever there is a comparison of solar cells the main thing assessed is cost of the solar

cell. If the cost is high customers will not buy it. The first solar cell was costly so they were

only used in satellites. There was no other cheaper ways to make electricity in space in

1950’s.The other major thing that experts look is that the “efficiency”. A high efficient cell

more sunlight into electricity than a low efficient cell. From the time of invention scientist

have worked to make them cheaper and more efficient. The first solar cell was having an

efficiency of less than 4%.Modern day cells cost less and have an efficiency of more than


BIOMIMETICS 2017-18


15%. There is a scope of making a better cells by using new materials such as plastic,

composites and mechanisms. For example there is a invention of “Photocapacitor: ” which is

a solar device that makes electricity and stores it. The results were not good for practical use

but this can be improved which might eliminate the use of batteries to store the electricity.

1.4.2 Significance of solar energy.

There has been a lot of studies about the solar power. The research study suggests that by

covering only 1% of worlds deserts with solar panels, could generate one fifth of the worlds

electricity needs. Use of solar home heating and water heating will definitely have positive

effect on the environment. Some customers find the expense of installing solar panels. It

should be noted that solar power will partially provide energy needs that will also results in

savings of electricity bills. The best part about solar power is that it can be used for large

number of applications. Within a home it can be used for heating, lighting, cooking and for

washers and dryers.

Solar power is known as “Eco-Friendly”, because it does not emit toxic gases into the

environment. The main aim of solar power is the initial investment of procurement and

installing the panels. The government provides subsidies but even though for many

homeowners it is not feasible this is the reason solar power is not widely used now a days.

Due to the savings on electrical bills and the positive effect on the environment makes the

solar panel an increasingly attractive for homes and businesses.


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Comparison of different countries that installed solar power in the year 2015 and 2016.

Figure number 1.8: PV installed capacity (Source: Internet)

In the year 2009,Indianagovernment revealed a plan to install 20 GW of solar power capacity

by 2020. This plan consists of use of solar powered equipment and its applications would be

made compulsory in all the government buildings, hospitals and hotels India launched

National Solar Mission in 2010 under National Action Plan on climate change, with plans to

generate 100 GW by 2020.

Indian government provide support and ample solar resources which helped to increase

solar adoption, but “as a growing economy with a surging middle class” now faces a severe

electricity deficiency between 10 and 13 percent.


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1.5 Introduction to Biomimetics.

Biomimetics or biomimicry is the imitation of the models, systems, and elements of nature

for the purpose of solving complex human problems. Nature has extensive pool of inventions

that passed through the harsh test of practicality and durability in changing environment. In

order to use most of the natures capabilities it is difficult to bridge between the fields of

biology and engineering and to see the cooperation of experts from both fields. This effort

can help in converting natures capabilities into engineering capabilities, tools and

mechanisms. In order to achieve nature in engineering terms, it is necessary to sort biological

capabilities with respect to technological categories. Some of the natures capabilities can

inspire new mechanisms, devices and robots.

Examples may include inspiring capability of numerous creatures with multiple mobility

options including flying, digging, crawling, climbing. One of the challenging capabilities is to

create miniature devices that can fly like a dragonfly, chemically generate and store energy.

Many other capabilities are there for which biology offers a model for science and

engineering inspiration. Whereas many concepts of biology are still beyond our

understanding, significant process has been made to increase the adaptability of the biological

concepts into engineering models and devices.

1.5.1 Significance of biomimetics in product design.

In recent days most of the product design companies are trying to imitate the design from

the nature. Below are few examples that demonstrate the importance of biomimetics in

product design.

Figure number 1.9: Bionic car(Source: Internet)

Mercedes Benz research and development has designed a bionic car or box fish car which has the

design replicating box fish.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human


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Figure number1.10: Japanese Bullet Train(Source: Internet)

Japan has designed a bullet train with its engine design resembling the head of kingfisher bird.

Figure number 1.11: Kangaroos Emulation(Source: Internet)

Bionic learning network hade designed a robot kangaroo to improve industrial robot energy

efficiency.

1.5.3 Applications of biomimetics in solar panels .

1.Glasswings:

Figure number 1.12: Glass wings(Source: Internet)

For many photovoltaic systems reflection can be major issue towards the system’s ability

to absorb solar energy. Commercial solar panels are coated with silicon which reflects up to


BIOMIMETICS 2017-18


30% of light and that reduces the efficiency. The team looked into the nature for inspiration

and discovered the wing of glass wing butterfly covered in nanostructures that appears like

“tapered pillars on pedestals” this antireflective coating reflects 2 to 5% of lights. The team

simplified and physically created the tapered nanostructures by using commercial

photovoltaic materials and depositing oxide on a glass film with the application of patterned

mask of silver. This process is more effective than commercial anti-reflection coatings and

increased the efficiency.

2. Bionic Photovoltaic Panels Bio-Inspired by Green Leaves.

Figure number 1.13-Bionic Photovoltaic Panels(Source: Internet)

The challenge that the Experimenters had undertaken was finding a leaf form that allowed for

ventilation while also having a large solar absorbing area and could be flexible enough to

withstand heavy storms.

1.6 Objectives

1. Increase the efficiency of the solar panels.

2. Easily accessible solar panels according to the requirement.

3. The product should cost less for maintenance.

4. The overall cost of the product should be minimum.

5. Aesthetics of the product should be appealing.


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1.6.1 Objective Tree


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1.7 Constraints

1. Weather.

2. Availability of good quality material.

3. The solar panel may not handle the heavy starting currents required by heavy machinery.

4. Solar power is generate only during daytime on non-rainy days.

1.8 Functions

1. Solar panel – to absorb the sunlight and convert it into useful form of electric energy

2. Cover glass – to reduce the reflection of the rays to increase the efficiency and to protect

the panels.

3. Reflective medium - to increase the absorption amount of rays.

4. Arrangement of panels – to capture maximum amount of rays that is possible by different

arrangement.


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CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Literature survey on Solar energy.

Solar power is the conversion of energy from sunlight into electricity, either directly

using photovoltaics (PV), indirectly using concentrated solar power, or a combination.

Concentrated solar power systems use lenses or mirrors and tracking systems to focus a large

area of sunlight into a small beam. Photovoltaic cells convert light into an electric

current using the photovoltaic effect. Photovoltaics were initially solely used as a source

of electricity for small and medium-sized applications, from the calculator powered by a

single solar cell to remote homes powered by an off-grid rooftop PV system. Commercial

concentrated solar power plants were first developed in the 1980s. As the cost of solar

electricity has fallen, the number of grid-connected solar PV systems has grown into the

millions and utility-scale solar power stations with hundreds of megawatts are being built.

Solar PV is rapidly becoming an inexpensive, low-carbon technology to harness renewable

energy from the Sun.

2.1.1 Work done to increase solar panel efficiency.

1) Solar Power Analysis Based On Light Intensity:

The work is carried out by Dr. M.Narendra Kumar , Dr. H.S. Saini, Dr.K.S.R. Anjaneyulu ,

Mr.Kuldip Sing ,GNIT,Hyderabad.

The abstract of the work is “The recent decades have seen the increase in solar power demand

for reliable and clean sources electricity. The generation of solar power is based on the sun

rays intensity on the solar panel and the wavelength. The challenge in solar power plant to

maximize the wavelength of the rays from the sun and minimize the temperature effect on the

Panel. This paper analysis the solar panel based on different wavelength based Light

intensity”.

Conclusion of this work is “In solar systems maximum efficiency can be obtained if

the sun rays wavelength is more and the temperature on the Panel surface is less. This is

obtained by using the different colour of light spectrum and we can minimize the panel

surface by using some culling method like water circulating methods. From the results we

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_transformation

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunlight

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electricity

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaics

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concentrated_solar_power

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lens_(optics)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirrors

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_tracking

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_current

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_current

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaic_effect

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electricity

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amorphous_silicon#Solar_cells

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Off-grid

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_PV_systems

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Growth_of_photovoltaics

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Growth_of_photovoltaics

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaic_power_station

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renewable_energy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renewable_energy


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can conclude that the efficiency of panels can improve if the wavelength of light is increasing

and temperature on panel body is decreasing”.

2) Effect of temperature on the efficiency of solar panel :

The work is carried out by Ike, C. U of Department of Physics/Industrial Physics Nnamdi

Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.

This research was carried out by monitoring the variation in power output of the system with

ambient temperature of the area during dry and raining seasons in the year 2013. From the

results, there is an indirect proportionality between the power output performance of the

system and the ambient temperature. The results indicate that PV solar panels must be

installed at a place where they receive more air currents so that the temperature remains low

while the output remains high.

3) Use of Biomimicry in industrial design:

The work is carried out by Nina Louise and Volstad Casper Boks of Norwegian University of

Science and Technology (NTNU), Norway.

The abstract of their work is “ Designers and engineers are constantly searching for

inspiration to solve their problems. One source

of inspiration that has been used to some degree for centuries is nature. This practice is often

referred to as “biomimicry”; innovation inspired by nature. This paper reviews existing

literature and explores biomimicry information relevant for industrial design, as it is rather

dispersed or intertwined with information from other areas. Perceived benefits and pitfalls are

critically discussed, and the paper stipulates that to get the most out of biomimicry, it should

be regarded as a way to enlarge the designer’s solution-space. When used reductively - with

the goal to find a solution, not to necessarily create an ecologically sound product –

biomimicry can be seen as a supplement to the designer’s existing toolkit. However, it should

not be used bombastically and without consideration as if only nature holds the most suitable

solution a design challenge. The paper includes the presentation of a newly developed tool

for designers in the form of a card deck, displaying categorized sources of inspiration towards

design solutions. This provides industrial designers with an easy starting point to work with

this subject.


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4) Moth eye antireflection property to reduce reflection.

An apposition compound eye adapted for nocturnal vision in the moth midge of Clogmia

albipunctata

The work is carried out by Lei-PoJia Ai-PingLiang of Key Laboratory of Zoological

Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of

Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing ,China.

Morphology and anatomy, dark/light adaptational changes and optics of the compound eyes

of the nocturnal moth midge Clogmia albipunctata (Williston) are studied. Its apposition type

of eye consists of approximately 260 well-separated ommatidia. Each ommatidium features a

biconvex corneal lens covered by corneal nipples measuring around 17 nm in height; a

crystalline cone of the acone type; and an open (laterally fused) rhabdom formed by eight

retinular cells (R1-R8). The corneal lens, whose biological significance is addressed, is

composed of a thick yellow-coloured inner lens unit (ILU) surrounded by a thin, colourless

outer lens unit (OLU).

Figure Number 2.1-Moth Eye Internal Structure(Source: Internet)

5) Natural convection system for maintaining low temperature.

The work is carried out by A.-M. Perttu & S.E.A. Gehlin of Swedish Centre for Shallow

Geothermal Energy institution

In groundwater filled borehole heat exchangers (BHE), convective flow inside the borehole

water will affect the heat transfer. Since the convective flow is dependent of the temperature

gradient, different injection rates and ground temperatures will result in different borehole

thermal resistance. This works describes the influence of natural convection in water-filled

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022191016303031#!

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022191016303031#!

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/A_M_Perttu

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/SEA_Gehlin


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boreholes in impermeable bedrock for ground-coupled heat pump (GCHP) systems. An

overview of groundwater-filled boreholes and the influence of groundwater movements are

presented followed by numerical simulations and field measurements to further investigate

the influence.

The results show that convective flow in groundwater-filled BHE results in 5-9 times more

efficient heat transfer compared to stagnant water when heat carrier temperatures are in the

range of 50-86°F (10-30°C). The size of the convective flow depends on the temperature

gradients in the borehole. This shows the importance of on-site investigation of thermal

properties using appropriate power injection rates similar to those in the system to be built.

6) Sunflower as tracking system

Figure Number 2.2-Sunflower facing sun (Source: Internet)

Turning heads: the biology of solar tracking in sunflower

The work is carried out by joshua p. Vandenbrinka, evan a. Browna, stacey l. Harmer b,

benjamin k. Blackmana of a department of biology, university of virginia,USA

Solar tracking in the common sunflower, helianthus annuus, is a dramatic example of a

diurnal rhythm in plants. During the day, the shoot apex continuously reorients, following the

sun’s relative position so that the developing heads track from east to west. At night, the

reverse happens, and the heads return and face east in anticipation of dawn. This daily cycle

dampens and eventually stops at anthesis, after which the sunflower head maintains an

easterly orientation. Although shoot apical heliotropism has long been the subject of


BIOMIMETICS 2017-18


physiological studies in sunflower, the underlying developmental, cellular, and molecular

mechanisms that drive the directional growth and curvature of the stem in response to

extrinsic and perhaps intrinsic cues are not known. Furthermore, the ecological functions of

solar tracking and the easterly orientation of mature heads have been the subject of significant

but unresolved speculation. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge about

this complex, dynamic trait. Candidate mechanisms that may contribute to daytime and

nighttime movement are highlighted, including light signaling, hormonal action, and

circadian regulation of growth pathways. The merits of the diverse hypotheses advanced to

explain the adaptive significance of heliotropism in sunflower are also considered.


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CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

To find the problem area where we can apply the concept of biomimetics

Conducting research on solar energy and its conversion to different form

To find the concept of biomimetics which can be applied to solve the

problem

Finalization of the concepts that can be used to solve the problem

Analysis of experimental results

Designing the models and fabrication

Conducting the experiment by using Design of experiment concept(DOE)

Conclusion and results


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3.1 Research Plan:

It consists of the complete plan carried out to complete the project.

The research plan consists of three main categories which are been derived from different

natural occurrences:

1. Tracking system: It is used to increase the efficiency of the solar panel by tracking the sun

light as identical to sun flower. Here the solar panel is made to rotate as the sun travels from

east to west. Instead of keeping the panel stationary the tracking is provided to capture more

intensity of sunlight.

2. Cooling System: Temperature is one of the main constraint for producing solar electricity

.As the temperature increases the voltage of the panel decreases .Cooling is used to increase

the efficiency of the solar panel by reducing the heat absorbed by the solar cells during

absorption of light from the sun. Here cold water is passed below the solar panel through

copper pipe which absorbs the heat and increases the efficiency. The method is inspired from

natural convection that takes place in sea.


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3.Anti-reflection: It is used to increase the efficiency of the solar panel by reducing the

refraction of light from the surface of solar panel. Here we use three types of anti reflection

materials and they are 3D square glass, Bubble Wrap, Fresnel lens and moth eye structured

window glass . All the four materials are been inspired from moth eye structure.(As explained

in literature paper Moth eye antireflection property to reduce reflection.)


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CHAPTER 4

Design Calculation

4.1 Measuring PV Efficiency

Efficiency in photovoltaic solar panels is measured by the ability of a panel to convert

sunlight into usable energy for human consumption. Knowing the efficiency of a panel is

important in order to choose the correct panels for your photovoltaic system. For smaller

roofs, more efficient panels are necessary due to space constraints.

• Ƞmax (Maximum efficiency) =

The incident radiation flux described as the amount of sunlight that hits the earth’s surface in

W/m 2 . The assumed incident radiation flux under standard test conditions (STC) that

manufacturers use is 1000 W/m 2 .Assuming a 400W system with an area of 30 ft 2 .To

determine the maximum efficiency of solar panels under STC.

First step is to convert the area of panels to units of square meters which is:

• Am2= Aft

2 ÷10.76

• = 2.79 m2

Now,

• = 0.143

0.143*100 = 14.3%

Hence, The maximum efficiency of 30 ft2 solar panel is 14.3%.


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4.2 Calculations for stand height.

• sin 30० = stand height / solar panel length

(length of solar panel =330 mm)

therefore, sin 30० = stand height / 330 mm

stand height = 330* ½

= 165 mm

Solar Panel Tilt angle refers to our zenith or elevation setting., the parameter that is key to

producing the most solar electricity is the elevation of the PV panel, the tilt angle is the

crucial part for a fixed solar panel,using a tracking mechanism the power generation can be

increased. The best optimum angle is from 60० to 15०. hence the angle that has been

considered is 30०


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CHAPTER 5

EXPERIMENTAL PLAN

The chapter focuses on setup up and its explanation that is done to carry out the different

experiments.

1. Tracking system: In this system, the solar panel is mounted on the servo motor. As the

motor rotates, the solar panel also rotates.

Figure number 5.1- 3D Model And Actual Model Of tracking System

2. Cooling System: In this system, the bottom of the solar panel is been provided with the

copper pipe, through which the cold water travels and dissipates the heat to increase the

efficiency of the solar panel.

Figure number 5.2- Cooling System

3.Anti-reflection: In this system, different solar panels are been attached with 3d glasses,

bubble sheet and Moth eye structure glass


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5.1 Experiment methodology:

5.2 Tabulation for Solar panel readings:

Date: 26/04/2018

Temperature: 38/22° C

Place : BVB college of Engineering and Technology (15.36°N,75.12°E)

Normal panel

Table number 5.1: Normal solar panel readings

Timings 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00

Normal panel(V) 19.10 19.60 19.70 19.90 19.70 19.70 19.80 19.40

Analysing and selecting the glass which gives maximum voltage output using DOE

(ANOVA)

Taking the readings of solar panel with Fresnel lens, cooling and tracking system

Calculating overall efficiency of solar panel and comparing the value with normal

panel efficiency.

Taking the readings of all solar panels including four types of glasses and cooling.


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Figure number 5.3- Experimentation with normal solar panel

Initially reading of the solar panel without any type of layers used for experimentation was

carried out using a multi-meter and observing the output voltage as the base for the

experimentation .

Square lens

Table number 5.2: Square lens readings

Timings 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00

Sq. lens

panel(V)

19.60 19.40 19.80 18.40 19.40 19.60 20.00 19.60

Figure number 5.4- Experimentation with square lens

Square lenses which disperses the light were laid down on the panel and the experimentation

was conducted with the help of multi-meter for observing the output voltage.


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Window glass

Table number 5.3: Window glass readings

Timings 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00

Window

glass

panel(V)

18.10 17.90 18.30 18.70 18.30 18.20 17.80 18.10

Figure number 5.5- Experimentation with window glass

Window glass which reduces the reflection of the light were was put on the panel and the

experimentation was conducted with the help of multi-meter for observing the output voltage

Bubble wrap

Table number 5.4: Bubble wrap readings

Timings 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00

Bubble

wrap

panel(V)

18.90 20.00 18.30 19.90 19.40 19.30 18.80 19.00


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Figure number 5.6- Experimentation with Bubble wrap

Bubble wrap which reduces the reflection of the light was put on the panel and the

experimentation was conducted with the help of multi-meter for observing the output voltage

Fresnel lens

Table number 5.5: Fresnel lens readings

Timings 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00

Fresnel

panel(V)

19.70 19.90 19.70 21.60 21.00 20.80 21.40 21.50

Figure number 5.7- Experimentation with Fresnel lens

Fresnel lens which disperses the light widely and reduces the reflection of light was put on

the panel and the experimentation was conducted with the help of multi-meter for observing

the output voltage.


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Cooling System

Table number 5.6: Cooling system readings

Timings 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00

Cooling

panel(V)

19.10 19.30 19.50 19.70 19.80 20.50 21.40 20.90

Figure number 5.8- Experimentation with Cooling System

Cooling system is used to reduce the temperature of the solar panel where the temperature is

raised due to the heat of the sun.


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Table number 5.7: Solar panel readings

5.3 ANOVA

Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is a collection of statistical models and their respective

procedures used to analyze the differences among group means. ANOVA is usefull to

comparing three or more means for statistical significance.

In this project ANOVA is used to analyze the variance present between four types of glasses

i.e Fresnel lens, window glass, square glass and bubble wrap which are used to capture

maximum amount of sunlight to produce maximum voltage from the solar panel. Among

these four which will give the highest average value of voltage that glass is taken for further

experimentations. Before going to ANOVA test, panel voltage reading is to be taken, Later

using minitab software ANOVA is carried out. The box plot and individual value graph is

plotted to analyze and select the better glass.

Timings Normal

panel

(V)

Panel

with

Square

lens (V)

Panel

with

window

glass (V)

Panel

with

Bubble

wrap (V)

Panel

with

Fresnel

lens (V)

Panel with

cooling

mechanism

(V)

11: 30 19.10 19.60 18.10 18.90 19.70 19.10

12: 00 19.60 19.40 17.90 20.00 19.90 19.30

12: 30 19.70 19.80 18.30 18.30 19.70 19.50

13: 00 19.90 18.40 18.70 19.90 21.60 19.70

13: 30 19.70 19.40 18.30 19.40 21.00 19.80

14: 00 19.70 19.60 18.20 19.30 20.80 20.50

14: 30 19.80 20.00 17.80 18.80 21.40 21.40

15: 00 19.40 19.60 18.10 19.00 21.50 20.90

Corr.Factor(%) 11.40 11.20 09.60 11.20 10.50 11.20

Avg. Including

Corr. Factor

17.37 17.28 16.95 17.04 18.52 17.78

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statistical_model


BIOMIMETICS 2017-18


5.4 Table for different glasses readings

Table number 5.8: Different Glasses Readings

To analyze this, In minitab software ONE WAY ANOVA (Unstacked) is used and result is

obtained .

5.4.1 Box plot:

Figure number 5.9- Box Plot

Panel with Square

lens (V)

Panel with

window glass (V)

Panel with Bubble

wrap (V)

Panel with Fresnel

lens (V)

19.60 18.10 18.90 19.70

19.40 17.90 20.00 19.90

19.80 18.30 18.30 19.70

18.40 18.70 19.90 21.60

19.40 18.30 19.40 21.00

19.60 18.20 19.30 20.80

20.00 17.80 18.80 21.40

19.60 18.10 19.00 21.50


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5.4.2 Individual value plot:

Figure number 5.10- Individual Value Plot

5.4.3 ANOVA result

Figure number 5.11- ANOVA Result


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From the above graphs and ANOVA result, The statistical significance of the one-way

ANOVA is found under the "P-Value" column ("P" column in Minitab) the significance

level is 0.000 (i.e., p = 0.000). Since this is below 0.05 (i.e., p < .05). So, it can be declare

that the result is statistically significant.

Fresnel lens is having more effect on the solar panel voltage production compare to other

three. Other than Fresnel lens, square glasses are having the more impact on the solar panel

efficiency. When comparing between Fresnel lens and square glasses, Fresnel lens is having

more impact on the efficiency of solar panel. Hence Fresnel lens is selected for further

experimentation.

5.5 Table for reading of the solar panel with tracking, cooling and Fresnel lens

Date: 30/04/2018

Temperature: 39/240 C

Place: BVB college of Engineering and Technology (15.36°N,75.12°E)

Table number 5.9: Reading Of The Solar Panel With Tracking, Cooling And Fresnel Lens

Timing 11: 30

am

12: 00

Noon

12: 30

pm

13: 00

Pm

13: 30

pm

14: 00

pm

14: 30

pm

15: 00

pm

Avg with

corr.factor

Panel

reading(V)

22 22 21.7 21.8 21.5 21.5 21.8 21.6 19.34


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Figure number 5.12- Reading Of The Solar Panel With Tracking, Cooling And Fresnel Lens


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5.6 Result:

Comparing the Average voltage value of the above solar panel with Average value of normal

solar panel having the size of 330x280 mm of rating 10w and 18v, There is increase of

11.35% in production of voltage .

It shows implementing the biomimetic concept to increase the efficiency of solar panel will

results in the increase in the voltage produced by the solar panel.


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CASE STUDY

1000 watt solar panel costs around Rs 60,000/- and its output will not constant throughout the

day. The output may low in the morning and its at peak in the afternoon. Hence the solar

energy produced by panel in a day is calculated using average solar irradiance in the location

where the solar panels are used.

The irradiance of solar energy varies with altitude, In the location where experiment is

carried out the solar irradiance Annual Average is 5.43 kWh/m2/day.

Using this value the output is calculated.

1000W solar panel (solar irradiation = 5.43 kWh on average annually), it will generate

5.43kWh x 1 kW = 5.43 kWh for the day.

By spending Rs 5000/- more for the implementing the techniques which are used in the

project will increase the efficiency of solar panel by 11.35%.

For the same 100W panel, In the same location, Using this method will increase the output

by 11.35% i.e

5.43+(5.43 x 0.113) = 6.04 kWh.

In Karnataka , The average unit price for electricity is Rs 4.00/kW. The normal panel produce

the electricity of Rs.6441.3/year. Where as the Solar panel with biomimetic technique will

produce the electricity of Rs. 7165.5/ year. In longer run the profit will be attained easily


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References

[1] Improving the performance of solar panels by the use of phase-change materials - Pascal

Biwole, Pierre Eclache , Frederic Kuznik. University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, Nice, France

University of Lyon, Villeurbanne, France.

[2]Improving of the photovoltaic / thermal system performance using water cooling

technique -Hashim A Hussien al 2015 IOP Conf. Ser.: Mater. Sci. Eng. 78 012020

[3]Experimental Study of Enhancing The Performance of PV Panel Integrated with Solar

Thermal System- K.Jaiganesh, Dr.K.Duraiswamy

[4]Experimental characterisation of a Fresnel lens photovoltaic concentrating system -

Yupeng Wu, Philip Eames, Tapas Mallick, Mohamed Sabry .

[5] Antireflective surface inspired from biology: A review - Z.W.Han, Z.Wang, X.M.Feng

,B.Li , Z.Z.Mu, J.Q.Zhang, S.C.Niun, L.Q. Ren Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering

(Ministry of Education, China),Jilin University, Changchun130022,P.R.China Received

14October2016; received in revisedform 7 November 2016;accepted 14 November 2016

[6]Measuring PV cell efficiency - http://www.pvpower.com/assets/Measuring-PV-

Efficiency-Solar-Panels.pdf

[7] Experimental Analysis of solar panel efficiency with different modes of cooling -

B.Koteswararao, K. Radha Krishna, P.Vijay, N.Raja surya

[8] Solar Power Analysis Based On Light Intensity - Dr. M.Narendra Kumar, Dr. H.S. Saini,

Dr.K.S.R. Anjaneyulu, Mr.Kuldip Singh- GNIT,Hyderabad

[9] Integration of an On-Axis General Sun-Tracking Formula in the Algorithm of an Open-

Loop Sun-Tracking System- Kok-Keong Chong, Chee-Woon Wong, Fei-Lu Siaw, Tiong-

Keat Yew, See-Seng Ng, Meng-Suan Liang, Yun-Seng Lim and Sing-Liong Lau.

[10]https://answers.energysage.com/question/102/if-a-solar-panel-is-rated-at-300w-how-

much-power-will-it-produce/

[11]https://www.bijlibachao.com/solar/india-solar-photovoltaic-pv-panels-selection-guide-

understanding-system-quality.html

[12] http://www.synergyenviron.com/tools/solar-irradiance/india/karnataka/dharwad

http://www.pvpower.com/assets/Measuring-PV-Efficiency-Solar-Panels.pdf

http://www.pvpower.com/assets/Measuring-PV-Efficiency-Solar-Panels.pdf

https://answers.energysage.com/question/102/if-a-solar-panel-is-rated-at-300w-how-much-power-will-it-produce/

https://answers.energysage.com/question/102/if-a-solar-panel-is-rated-at-300w-how-much-power-will-it-produce/

https://www.bijlibachao.com/solar/india-solar-photovoltaic-pv-panels-selection-guide-understanding-system-quality.html

https://www.bijlibachao.com/solar/india-solar-photovoltaic-pv-panels-selection-guide-understanding-system-quality.html


BIOMIMETICS 2017-18


APPENDIX

1) Arduino programme used for automation of the sun tracking solar panel

system:

#include <Servo.h>

Servo myservo; // create servo object to control a servo

// twelve servo objects can be created on most boards

int Angle =08;

int D_Time = 30;

int pos = 0; // variable to store the servo position

int i = 0;

void setup() {

myservo.attach(9); // attaches the servo on pin 9 to the servo object

}

void loop() {

for (pos = 0; pos <= 90; pos += Angle) { // goes from 0 degrees to 180 degrees

// in steps of 1 degree

myservo.write(pos); // tell servo to go to position in variable 'pos'

for(i=1;i <= D_Time ;i++)

{

delay(60000); // waits 30m for the servo to reach the position

}

}

for (pos = 90; pos >= 0; pos -= 1) { // goes from 180 degrees to 0 degrees

myservo.write(pos); // tell servo to go to position in variable 'pos'

delay(30); // waits 30ms for the servo to reach the position

}

}


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2) Sun tracking angle calculation:

The angle covered by sun to move from east to west is 180°. Average time of sunrise is taken

as 6:30 am and sun set time as 6:30 pm. The hour angle expresses the time of day with

respect to the solar noon: It is the angle between the plane of the meridian containing

observer and meridian that touches the earth-sun line. It is zero at solar noon and increases by

15° every hour.

Here, experiment is conducted at every half an hour, so dividing the calculated angle by 2

will gives the angle of rotation of the sun at every half an hour.

Hence, At 6:30 the angle of sun is 0°. As sun rises the angle increases. At 11:30 am the sun is

at 75°. At 12:00 noon the angle of sun is 82.5°. At 12:30 pm the angle is 90° and so on.

According to this angles the arduino programming is done to track the sunlight.

3) Solar Irradiance In the location Per year:

Dharwad, Karnataka

Latitude : 15.45 Longitude : 75.05

Annual Average : 5.43 kWh/m2/day


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4) Project team details

1.Madhusudan Bijapur

Mobile:9632802028

Email: [email protected]

2.Rahul Lamani

Mobile:9632021764

Email : [email protected]

3.Shivaling Tubachi

Mobile :8880910343


4. Manjunath Mattikoppa

Mobile:7411676527


5. Milan Asangi

Mobile:9880949477


mailto:[email protected]





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