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Conference Proceedings ; Renewable energy systems are receiving more and more attention, as governments and industry seek to reduce fossil fuel usage and provide more clean energy. PV systems fall into this category, and are especially sought after in countries that enjoy sufficient annual solar radiation. It has been scientifically proven that both the tilt and orientation angles, along with variable atmospheric conditions, impact significantly on the optimum output power of PV modules used in these systems. The purpose of this paper is to present a simplified measuring approach to validate this fact when considering the tilt angle. Research is not always about discovering new aspects, but also involves using various scientific methods to test and retest current findings. This simplified measuring approach is a re-test of current findings that indicates that a PV module with a high tilt angle starts operating earlier than a PV module with a lower tilt angle for winter periods in South Africa. However, the simplified approach costs less than 25% of traditional measuring approaches, providing a visual dimension and perspective in validating current research findings.

Published Conference Proceeding ; The installation of different renewable energy systems is gaining momentum globally, as governments and industry seek to reduce carbon emissions and fossil fuel usage. PV systems have become more common place, as evidenced by the number of PV array roof-installations visible in many communities today. However, it is assumed that the modules in these arrays are identical, as it is important to have similar currents flow through each branch of an array. Partial shading or unmatched PV modules may lead to power mismatches, hot spots and ultimately a lower overall output power than what is desired. The purpose of this paper is to present a simplified measuring approach to validate the operating performance of two identical PV modules by determining their switch-on time. Any significant differences in switch-on time between identical PV modules could lead to possible power mismatches in a PV array. Results confirm that both PV modules are very similar in switch-on time, with an average on-time difference of 2 minutes and 27 seconds. This indicates that both PV modules start operating at roughly the same time of the day, thereby providing similar current flows which contribute to the optimum performance of a PV array.