Experimental Comparison of Planar and Parabolic Reflectors for Improved Photovoltaic Output
Abstract
The global demand for renewable energy sources has propelled advancements in photovoltaic (PV)
technology, aiming to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of solar power generation. This study
empirically examines how reflector geometry affects photovoltaic (PV) system performance by contrasting flat
and parabolic reflector designs. The two reflector types were tested in a controlled outdoor area with the same
ambient factors and solar irradiation. Over 30 days, important performance indicators such as power output,
current-voltage characteristics, and temperature impacts were measured. Because parabolic reflectors are better
at concentrating diffuse and directing sunlight, the results show that they can increase PV output by up to 28%
compared to planar reflectors. Planar reflectors, on the other hand, showed less vulnerability to hotspot
development and more uniformity in light distribution. The results provide useful insights for developing
reflector-integrated PV systems in a variety of climatic settings by highlighting the trade-offs between
operational stability and efficiency benefits.
References
- Ismail, B., Abdallah, L., & Elhachemi, K. (2025). Experimental comparison of planar and parabolic reflectors for improved photovoltaic output. The Eurasia Proceedings of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (EPSTEM), 34, 369-376.
Details
| Primary Language | English |
|---|---|
| Subjects | Photovoltaic Power Systems |
| Journal Section | Articles |
| Authors | |
| Early Pub Date | August 1, 2025 |
| Publication Date | August 1, 2025 |
| Submission Date | February 24, 2025 |
| Acceptance Date | March 30, 2025 |
| Published in Issue | Year 2025 Volume: 34 |
