TITLE:
Influence of Atmospheric Parameters on the Degradation of Solar Panels’ Electrical Performance
AUTHORS:
Boniface Herve Mabikana Voula, Antoine Victorien Mabiala Louboto, Michel Nkombo Mazouka, Bernard M’Passi Mabiala
KEYWORDS:
Atmospheric Parameters, Solar Panels, Photovoltaics, Series and Shunt Resistors
JOURNAL NAME:
Engineering,
Vol.18 No.8,
August
31,
2026
ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to examine the premature degradation of photovoltaic solar panels under the influence of atmospheric parameters (temperature, humidity, pressure, wind, irradiance, etc.), based on the key elements of Bishop’s mathematical model (two-diode model). The Bishop mathematical model is one of the models that allows us to better describe and explain the behavior of these panels during operation, taking into account the geographical environment in which the solar cells are located. As a result, they are subject to various defects and anomalies that contribute to a decrease in efficiency. Using MATLAB software, we were able to plot and analyze the progression of degradation in electrical parameters (series and shunt resistances) on the power output of the solar panel. From the families of plotted curves, it is evident that the increase in series resistance and the decrease in shunt resistance are due to corrosion caused by humidity in the environment where the photovoltaic cell is located. Both of these analyzed cases significantly reduce the power output of the solar panel. A degradation coefficient for the series resistance was calculated, a value that is consistent with results reported in the literature.