Application of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Technology in the Tropics: Effects of Air Mass on Device Performance

Abstract

Effects of air mass on the performance of a dye-sensitized solar module (DSSM) have been investigated in a tropical area in Nairobi, Kenya. Outdoor measurements were performed at different times on different days and a series of currentvoltage (I-V) characterizations carried out at different air mass values and module tilt angles. The module performance parameters: Short circuit current density, (Jsc), Open circuit voltage, (Voc), Fill factor, (FF) and solar-to-electricity conversion efficiency, (η) were extracted from the I-V curves. The module’s η and FF increased with air mass while Voc and Jsc decreased with increase in AM. The module performed better in the afternoon hours than in the morning hours. The results may be useful in tuning dye-sensitized solar cells for use in the tropics as well as in the design of Net Zero Energy buildings.