Challenges of small-scale standalone solar energy supply in parts of Lagos via 39 years dataset

Abstract

The adoption of solar energy as a sustainable clean type of energy can be seen globally by the patronage of solar devices. However, the high patronage photovoltaic (PV) module by the small-scale standalone user may be mitigated by the recent high maintenance cost via PV module damages by UV radiation. This study analyzed thirty-nine years (1980-2018) shortwave dataset in the tropics to chart the way forward for PV user, manufacturer, and regulatory organizations. It was observed that there is an increase in shortwave radiation in recent times that has led to more damages to PV modules. However, there is a statistical possibility that there may be lower shortwave radiation in the next decade, thereby reducing PV module damage. It is recommended that PV manufacture should modify the PV polymeric to shield the PV modules from UV radiation damage. Based on this research’s finding, it is recommended that product regulatory organizations develop a new technique to monitor PV modules.