Experimental Study on the Efficiency andDurability of Different Solar Panel TechnologiesUnder Varied Climatic Conditions

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have emerged as one of the most promising renewable-energy
technologies for sustainable power generation. However, the real-world performance of solar panels is strongly influenced by climatic variations such as temperature, humidity, irradiance levels, dust accumulation, and precipitation. This study presents an experimental investigation into the efficiency and durability of three widely used solar panel technologies—Monocrystalline Silicon (Mono-Si), Polycrystalline Silicon (Poly-Si), and Thin-Film Cadmium Telluride (CdTe)—when exposed to multiple climatic environments. Field experiments were conducted over a five-month period in controlled test beds simulating high-temperature dry climates, humid monsoon conditions, and low-temperature cloudy environments. Performance metrics included output power, efficiency degradation rate, thermal
characteristics, surface wear, and dust susceptibility. Results showed that Mono-Si panels maintained the highest average efficiency across all climates but experienced notable thermal losses in extreme heat. Poly-si panels demonstrated stable performance but moderate degradation, especially under prolonged humidity. Thin-film CdTe panels performed exceptionally well in diffuse light and high-temperature scenarios but showed higher surface wear over time. The study concludes that no single panel type is universally optimal, and climate-specific selection greatly improves long-term reliability and energy yield. The findings contribute to better decision-making for solar deployment in varied environmental regions