Calibration of a photo-voltaic array by means of a solar eclipse

Abstract

We used the total solar eclipse on 21 June 2001, as viewed from Zimbabwe, as a calibration tool for standardizing a solar panel as a reference for solar power. Calculations of the obscurity of the sun during the eclipse were combined with power measurements from the panel to produce a calibration curve for the behaviour of the P-V array. Allowances were made for the varying thickness of the atmosphere during the period of the eclipse. Graphs for the raw readings and the final calibration are presented.