Performance Assessment of Islanding Detection for Mul-ti-inverter Grid-connected Photovoltaic Systems

Islanding detection is an essential function for safety and reliability in grid-connected Distributed Generation Systems (DGS). Passive and active islanding detection methods have been analyzed in literature considering DGS with only one inverter connected to the utility. With the big scale application of photovoltaic (PV) power systems, islanding detection technology of multi-inverter DGS has been paid more attention. This paper analyzes the performance of diverse islanding detection methods in multiple inverters grid-connected PV systems. Non-Detection Zones (NDZ) of multi-inverter systems in a load parameter space are used as analytical tool. The paper provides guidance for the islanding detection design in multiple grid-connected inverters.

Generating capacity adequacy evaluation of large-scale, grid-connected photovoltaic systems

Large-scale, grid-connected photovoltaic sys- tems have become an essential part of modem electric power distribution systems. In this paper, a novel approach based on the Markov method has been proposed to investigate the effects of large-scale, grid-connected photovoltaic systems on the reliability of bulk power systems. The proposed method serves as an applicable tool to estimate performance （e.g., energy yield and capacity） as well as reliability indices. The Markov method frame- work has been incorporated with the＇ multi-state models to develop energy states of the photovoltaic systems in order to quantify the effects of the photovoltaic systems on the power system adequacy. Such analysis assists planners to make adequate decisions based on the economical expectations as well as to ensure the recovery of the investment costs over time. The failure states of the components of photovoltaic systems have been considered to evaluate the sensitivity analysis and the adequacy indices including loss of load expectation, and expected energy not supplied. Moreover, the impacts of transitions between failures on the reliability calculations as well as on the long- term operation of the photovoltaic systems have been illustrated. Simulation results on the Roy Billinton test system has been shown to illustrate the procedure of the proposed frame work and evaluate the reliability benefits of using large-scale, grid-connected photovoltaic system on the bulk electric power systems. The proposed method can be easily extended to estimate the operating and maintenance costs for the financial planning of the photovoltaic system projects.

A Distributed Photovoltaics Ordering Grid-Connected Method for Analyzing Voltage Impact in Radial Distribution Networks

In recent years,distributed photovoltaics(DPV)has ushered in a good development situation due to the advantages of pollution-free power generation,full utilization of the ground or roof of the installation site,and balancing a large number of loads nearby.However,under the background of a large-scale DPV grid-connected to the county distribution network,an effective analysis method is needed to analyze its impact on the voltage of the distribution network in the early development stage of DPV.Therefore,a DPV orderly grid-connected method based on photovoltaics grid-connected order degree(PGOD)is proposed.This method aims to orderly analyze the change of voltage in the distribution network when large-scale DPV will be connected.Firstly,based on the voltagemagnitude sensitivity(VMS)index of the photovoltaics permitted grid-connected node and the acceptance of grid-connected node(AoGCN)index of other nodes in the network,thePGODindex is constructed to determine the photovoltaics permitted grid-connected node of the current photovoltaics grid-connected state network.Secondly,a photovoltaics orderly grid-connected model with a continuous updating state is constructed to obtain an orderly DPV grid-connected order.The simulation results illustrate that the photovoltaics grid-connected order determined by this method based on PGOD can effectively analyze the voltage impact of large-scale photovoltaics grid-connected,and explore the internal factors and characteristics of the impact.

Design of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic System

This paper presents a grid connected photovoltaic system (PV) with a proposed high voltage conversion ratio DC-DC converter which steps up the variable low input voltages of photovoltaic module to the required DC link voltage. This voltage is applied to an H-bridge inverter which converts DC voltage into AC voltage and a low pass filter is used to filter the output. By adjusting the duty ratio of switches in DC-DC converter, the magnitude of inverter’s output voltage is controlled. The frequency and phase synchronization are ensured by a feedback signal taken from the grid. In this way, inverter is synchronized and connected with the grid to meet the energy demand. The PV system has been designed and simulated.

Evaluation of the Performances of the First Grid-Connected Photovoltaic System in Sénégal

This document presents the evaluation and the monitoring of the performances of the first grid-connected photovoltaic system installed in the Center of Studies and Researches on the Renewable Energies (CERER) inaugurated on December 4th, 2012 by the governmental authorities of Senegal and Tenerife. This mini power plant of 3.15 kWc is a perfect example of the political will of the government which is to reduce the production cost of the electricity, with the diversification of the sources of production, and the greater use of the other sources such as the natural gas, the coal, the renewable energies. The evaluation of the performances of the installation is realized by using the indicators of efficiency and performance as the photovoltaic surface yield, the ratio of photovoltaic performance, the photovoltaic specific yield, and the losses of captures. The obtained results show that a big part of the energy shone during the period of observation was not able to be used further to circumstances such as the losses of conductivity, the heat losses or for example the defects on components. The analysis also shows that a large part of the produced energy is not injected because of the dilapidation of the network, the defects of landing but especially one disjunction sees frequently at the level of the point of injection.

IoT-based green-smart photovoltaic system under extreme climatic conditions for sustainable energy development

To realize carbon neutrality,there is an urgent need to develop sustainable,green energy systems(especially solar energy systems)owing to the environmental friendliness of solar energy,given the substantial greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-based power sources.When it comes to the evolution of intelligent green energy systems,Internet of Things(IoT)-based green-smart photovoltaic(PV)systems have been brought into the spotlight owing to their cutting-edge sensing and data-processing technologies.This review is focused on three critical segments of IoT-based green-smart PV systems.First,the climatic parameters and sensing technologies for IoT-based PV systems under extreme weather conditions are presented.Second,the methods for processing data from smart sensors are discussed,in order to realize health monitoring of PV systems under extreme environmental conditions.Third,the smart materials applied to sensors and the insulation materials used in PV backsheets are susceptible to aging,and these materials and their aging phenomena are highlighted in this review.This review also offers new perspectives for optimizing the current international standards for green energy systems using big data from IoT-based smart sensors.

A Study on the Effects of Solar Tracking Systems on the Performance of Photovoltaic Power Plants

The use of renewable energy resources to produce the electricity is a rising trend in various countries worldwide. This is especially because these energies do not produce the greenhouse gases;therefore, don’t become a destructive factor on the ozone layer and the environment. Besides, the fossil energies are always exposed to price changes and will eventually end, while the renewable energies don’t pose such problems and are freely acquired from the nature. Some of the most important of these reproducible energy resources are the energies of the wind and the solar energy. The generation capability of a photovoltaic power plant is largely dependent on the intensity of the sun radiation. On the other hand, the changing of position causes the sun to have a variable shining intensity in different seasons and different times of the year;therefore, some of the solar power plants possess solar tacking systems. This paper studies the different types of photovoltaic systems including fixed panel, photovoltaic farms equipped to the single axis and double axis tracking systems and their effects on the performance of the solar power plants. In order to determine the position of the sun in the sky, the zenith and azimuth angles of it are used to extract the relations between the different parameters of the sun radiation. The resulted parameters are used in the modeling of the single axis and double axis systems. In the paper it is utilized from the sun parameters in Qeshm Island of Iran in the summer of 2011.

Distributed Virtual Inertia Based Control of Multiple Photovoltaic Systems in Autonomous Microgrid

The large inertia of a traditional power system slows down system's frequency response but also allows decent time for controlling the system.Since an autonomous renewable microgrid usually has much smaller inertia,the control system must be very fast and accurate to fight against the small inertia and uncertainties.To reduce the demanding requirements on control,this paper proposes to increase the inertia of photovoltaic(PV) system through inertia emulation.The inertia emulation is realized by controlling the charging/discharging of the direct current(DC)-link capacitor over a certain range and adjusting the PV generation when it is feasible and/or necessary.By well designing the inertia,the DC-link capacitor parameters and the control range,the negative impact of inertia emulation on energy efficiency can be reduced.The proposed algorithm can be integrated with distributed generation setting algorithms to improve dynamic performance and lower implementation requirements.Simulation studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed solution.

Voltage Unbalance Mitigation in Low Voltage Distribution Networks with Photovoltaic Systems

This paper proposes a technique to mitigate the voltage unbalance issue caused by the high penetration of photovoltaic （PV） systems into the low voltage distribution networks （LVDN） using a single phase energy storage system （ESS）. The ESS comprises a hi-directional power flow inverter and a battery bank. The system is capable of absorbing the excess power and delivering power to the network in order to keep the voltage unbalance factor （VUF） below the statutory limit of 1%. Investigations are carried out in the experimental small-scale energy zone （SSEZ）. The experimental results demonstrate that the ESS is capable of mitigating the VUF of the network.

Design and Performance of Photovoltaic Water Pumping Systems: Comprehensive Review towards a Renewable Strategy for Mozambique

The use of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology for water pumping systems (WPS) has been one of the most popular forms of solar energy application in recent decades in remote and desert areas, as well as in some urban areas. In this article, an advanced literature review on the design and performance of solar technology for water pumping is presented, exploring also the best perspective of transition for the developing countries energy needs. Additionally, this paper intends to analyze the Mozambique’s perspective on renewable energy technologies setting the Mozambican scenario regarding photovoltaic water pumping systems (PVWPS) technology with the aim to identifying the main knowledge of PVWPS design and research gap. The results show that the most commonly used configuration of PVWPS technology is direct coupling systems without battery storage. These systems are simple and reliable, mainly used in small-scale pumping for small irrigations and domestic use. The mainly variables that influence the performance of PVWPS are: total dynamic head, quantity of fluid extracted, variation of solar radiation level, PV and motor pump technology. Yet, the efficiency of the PV and overall system does not exceed 10% and 5%, respectively. Looking at the designing, mathematical models, software-assisted is being predominant. Yet, as research gap, it is possible to understand from different authors that the dynamic nature of the end-use of PVWPS is not explored on methodology design of PVWPS, and the techno-economic optimum system configuration is not always the one that gives the highest annual system efficiency. For the Mozambican’s context, PVWPS for irrigation has been expanding slowly but has gained expression since 2013. In turn, static models based on software of pump manufacturers for PVWPS design are the most widely used in Mozam-bique. In Mozambique, PVWPS match the perspective of different researchers regarding the availability of solar resource, boreholes and amount of water required for irrigation. The adoption of PVWPS is a means of increasing the sustainability of the rural communities.

A composite controller for grid connected photovoltaic systems

This paper addresses a new composite controller for a boost-buck inverter to interface the photovoltaic array with the power grid. Based on dynamically tracking the maximum power point, two novel control methodologies are proposed to control the DC-bus and the output current for the inverter. First, a new linear cycle discrete control algorithm is introduced to realize linear control of the DC-bus voltage and synchronously get the reference current for the inner current loop with a little calculation. Then, to assure a good adaptability to noise and model uncertainty, an auto-disturbance rejection controller is chosen as the output current controller, which does not depend on precise mathematics model. Thus, output current of PV system to the grid is with low harmonic distortion and unity power factor. Simulations and experiments are performed, and the results show that the system is of excellent robustness and effective.

Environmental Impacts of Grid Connected High Concentrated Photovoltaic Systems Adapted for Peak Load Minimization in Hot Climate

High concentrated PV multi-junction solar cells (HCPV) likely present a favorable alternative to achieve low cost of energy. However, multi-junction solar cell has different characteristics which should be settled before they can be adapted for large scale energy generation. Peak energy consumption in Kuwait usually occurs in periods of utilizing air conditioning systems which are essentially used in almost all year around in harsh climate like Kuwait. Power consumed at peak times is more costly than power needed to satisfy loads at regular consumption times. The main goal of the present research is to increase HCPV solar cells’ efficiency, to decrease maximum power cost in Kuwait. Multi-junction solar cells performance in weather conditions of Kuwait is investigated employing a single diode equivalent circuit model. The model developed considers the impacts of concentration ratio as well as temperature. Most research in literature review usually neglects shunt resistance of the diode, however this resistance is taken into consideration in current developed theoretical model. To calibrate the present model, current predictions are compared with corresponding measured data provided by multi-junction solar cell manufacturer. The total root mean square errors in the present model predictions are about 1.8%. This means that current developed model of single diode model which takes into account shunt resistance impacts gives precise and reliable data. HCP electrical efficiency is noticed to rise as concentration increases but to a certain concentration value, then it begins to decrease. In addition, utilizing HCPV linked to grid satisfies great decrease in maximum load. Power produced from HCPV modules is utilized to provide energy needs to a family in normal Kuwaiti family home to evaluate HCPV environmental effects. HCPV modules slopes and areas are changed to accomplish peak energy production all over the year. Present results reveal that optimum power production corresponds to HCPV modules directed to south and having latitude of 25°. In addition, employing HCPV modules can avoid approximately 1.55 ton of emitted CO2 per year. In conclusion, current work reveals the advantage impacts of grid connected HCPV in Kuwait weather.

Efficient Modeling of Photovoltaic Systems Using CMEX S-Function under MATLAB-Simulink Environment

This paper discusses an implementation based on CMEX S-functions to model and to check implementation feasibility of two most commonly used Maximum Power Point Tracking （MPPT） algorithms, namely Hill Climbing/Perturb ＆ Observe （P＆O） and Incremental Conductance. This study can also be generalized to encompass the whole digital techniques family, including artificial intelligence like Neural Network and Fuzzy Logic Control.

Maximum Power Point Tracking Control Using Neural Networks for Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems

The employment of maximum power point tracking techniques in the photovoltaic power systems is well known and even of immense importance. There are various techniques to track the maximum power point reported in several literatures. In such context, there is an increasing interest in developing a more appropriate and effective maximum power point tracking control methodology to ensure that the photovoltaic arrays guarantee as much of their available output power as possible to the load for any temperature and solar radiation levels. In this paper, theoretical details of the work, carried out to develop and implement a maximum power point tracking controller using neural networks for a stand-alone photovoltaic system, are presented. Attention has been also paid to the command of the power converter to achieve maximum power point tracking. Simulations results, using Matlab/Simulink software, presented for this approach under rapid variation of insolation and temperature conditions, confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method both in terms of efficiency and fast response time. Negligible oscillations around the maximum power point and easy implementation are the main advantages of the proposed maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control method.

Study and Implementation on Batteries Charging Method of Micro-Grid Photovoltaic Systems

In the micro-grid photovoltaic systems, the random changes of solar radiation enable lead-acid batteries to experience low SOC (State of Charge) or overcharged for periods of time if directly charged with such traditional methods as decreased charging current, which will reduce lifetime of batteries. What’s more, it’s difficult to find a proper reduction coefficient in decreasing charging current. To adapt to the random changes of circumstance and avoid selecting the reduction coefficient, a new fast charging method named decreased charging current based on SOC is proposed to apply into micro-grid photovoltaic systems. It combines batteries’ SOC with the maximum charging voltage to determine the charging rate without strictly selecting reduction coefficient. By close-loop current control strategy and related scheme, the experiment proves the new method is feasible and verifies that, comparing with decreased charging current, the improved method make batteries’ SOC reach 100% in shorter time as well as the temperature of batteries raise more slowly.

Analysis of Energy Saving Achievable through Solar Photovoltaic Systems on School Roofs： A Case of the City of Rome

Embracing renewable energy technology makes a lot of sense for the public sectors and schools as it meets the government sustainability goals and provides a financially viable means of achieving carbon savings while offering income potential. This study is aimed to quantify the achievable energy saving by spread use ofphotovoltaic systems on public building stock in the city of Rome. The installation of PV （photovoltaic） systems in the historic center depends on the feasibility conditions, generally more complex compared to the cases examined in the consolidated city, because they require compliance with the formal and aesthetic characteristics of the buildings, so the choice must be made between compatible components, which allow to minimize the transformation. The suburbs are characterized by large plane roofs in bad conditions and belonging to isolated buildings, so the useful surface, according to shading condition, offers a big potential for renewable technologies. The research provides an evaluation of maximum production of solar energy and the subsequent energy saving and reduction of greenhouse gasses, using parametric data, and an evaluation of the cost-effectiveness, with a rough calculation of return on investment.

Modeling Energy Generation by Grid Connected Photovoltaic Systems in the United States

This article presents the results of an analysis of hourly data obtained from forty-three photovoltaic (PV) systems installed in North America. Energy data collected from these systems were organized according to monthly output in an effort to identify factors which are effective in predicting energy generation. Independent variables such as system capacity, shading, longitude, latitude, seasonal variation, and orientation were considered. Multiple regression analysis was used to quantify the kilowatt-hours that can be expected from a change in the independent variables. Results show that all six independent variables are significant predictors which can be used in a regression model to estimate system output with a high level of confidence. The analysis shows that approximately 83% of the variation in the amount of energy generated monthly by the forty-three solar panels is explained by the independent variables and the derived equation. Results of the study may prove helpful to solar panel system users who may need to consider less than optimum conditions during a PV panel installation and service life.

Building Integrated Photovoltaic Systems for Single Family Dwellings: Innovation Concepts

Growing consumer interest in distributed Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems and industry competition to reduce installation costs are stimulating the development of deploying these materials to the residential sector of the building industry. This emerging market continues to attract the attention of many stakeholders, yet cohesive opportunities to deploy in residential sectors, specifically detached single-family dwellings, is scattered. As a result, this study of literature and implementation strategies through simple examples looks to identify several characteristics related to BIPV. Characteristics that were studied in this initial pilot study were design considerations for system selection, applicability to residential construction, and system and material options and enhancements. A case-study home was analyzed demonstrating opportunity for implementation of BIPV on an existing residence. Strategies for maximizing the energy-generating capacity of the system to achieve net-zero energy performance, including all building surfaces and landscaping were also explored. This body of work provides a state-of-the-art review on common materials as well as the more customizable types.

Novel Switch Adaptive Control to Improve the Efficiency of Boost Converter in Photovoltaic Systems

The efficiency of photovoltaic power generation is affected by the changeable weather conditions. This paper improves the efficiency of a standalone PV system over a wider range of operating conditions by employing novel switch adaptive control to an interleaved boost converter. With various loads, simulation and experimental results show that the interleaved boost converter with novel switch adaptive control offers better performance and higher conversion efficiency under changeable weather conditions.

Overview of Boost Converters for Photovoltaic Systems

DC-DC boost power converters play an important role in solar power systems;they step up the input voltage of a solar array for a given set of conditions. This paper presents an overview of the variance boost converter topologies. Each boost converter is evaluated on its capability to operate efficient, size, and cost of implementation. Conventional boost converter and interleaved boost converter are widely used topologies in photovoltaic systems reported;however, they have negative sides of varied efficiency level under changed weather conditions. Therefore, this paper proposes, interleaved boost converter with novel switch adaptive control, to maximise efficiency of standalone photovoltaic system under change of solar power levels, due to illadation condition.