Finger Lakes Institute Solar Panel Efficiency Study

Compiled and analyzed Evan Brown, HWS '08

In October 2004, the Finger Lakes Institute installed a panel of twelve 165 Watt solar photovoltaic modules (58.1 in x 38.4 in. x 2.2 in.) along the southeastern side of the building to convert sunlight directly to electricity.

The solar photovoltaic modules were positioned in a southern orientation.  Each module contains 54 monocrystalline cells connected in a series. At peak power, the panel is able to produce a total of 1,980 Watts.  Each module features a 25 V maximum power voltage and a maximum amperage of 6.6 amps. The display structure on which the modules are mounted was designed to support the 468 lb. photovoltaic system.

The solar panel typically supplies less than 5% of the electricity for the building. As an economic benefit, excess energy collected by the panels could potentially be sold to the power company and deducted from the monthly energy bills.

FLI Solar Panel Energy Production Charts and Data

Frequently Asked Questions