Optimization of Photovoltaic Reflector System for Indoor Energy Harvesting

This study proposes a solution for optimizing the distance between a solar module and reflector for an indoor energy harvesting system. It is a process in which energy(ambient light) is captured and converted directly into electricity. Inside a building, this energy could be used to supply power to wide range of portable equipment or offset other electrical energy usage and associated costs. The proposed reflector element was designed and tested in a real indoor environment to confirm its effectiveness. A distance-optimization method for the placement of a polycrystalline photovoltaic (PV) module and a mirror was described, and the performance characteristics of the system were investigated qualitatively through visual observation and quantitatively through measuring voltage and ampere values. The solar PV system with a reflector element displayed a 10% increase in voltage when compared with that without. As the distance between PV module and the reflector increased, the voltage and ampere reading decreased, thus the distance was optimized to gain maximum readings. Various studies employing reflectors have also showed increases in voltage readings with different designs, suggesting that reflectors are economically viable optical elements that can boost the voltage output of a PV module. In practice, the distance-optimized PV module can be placed in buildings with extended indoor lighting duration away from disrupting building activity.