New Approach of Multi-Cell Stacked Cell Inverter for Solar Photovoltaic System

In this paper, a new inverter topology dedicated to isolated or grid-connected PV systems is proposed. This inverter is based on the structures of a stacked multi-cell converter (SMC) and an H-bridge. This new topology has allowed the voltage stresses of the converter to be distributed among several switching cells. Secondly, divide the input voltage into several fractions to reduce the number of power semiconductors to be switched. In this contribution, the general topology of this micro-inverter has been described and the simulation tests developed to validate its operation have been presented. Finally, we discussed the simulation results, the efficiency of this topology and the feasibility of its use in a grid-connected photovoltaic production system.

Soiling Effect and Remedial Measures of Solar Photovoltaic System Performance in Kuwait

The Gulf Cooperation Countries have the advantages of fundamental characteristics and abundant natural resources due to the high proportion of solar radiation, which helps to expand the transition to renewable energy, especially in solar projects. The Kuwait location was chosen for this research because of its high dust levels and average daily sunshine of 9.4 hours. The soiling map of Kuwait was then created using PVsyst software. A theoretical and mathematical model for 100 MW was developed based on many environmental and technical parameters. The model was run with Kuwait parameters and 100 MW solar PV power plant capacity. The results show that more than 25% of total generated electricity could be lost annually without any mitigation strategy. Furthermore, the efficiency loss could increase by around 50% during the seasons with sandstorms and high soiling rates. Additionally, manual and automatic cleaning methods were found to increase energy production from 112,092 MWh to 207,300 MWh. Moreover, manual cleaning reduced energy costs by 4.9%, but automated cleaning resulted in a 17.34% higher energy-saving cost than a system without cleaning. In addition, when using the automatic cleaning system, the system’s payback period was reduced from 9.22 to 7.86 years. Therefore, an automated cleaning system is recommended for use in Kuwait.

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.

MPPT Design Using PSO Technique for Photovoltaic System Control Comparing to Fuzzy Logic and P&O Controllers

The Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) is the optimum operating point of a photovoltaic module. It plays a very important role to obtain the maximum power of a solar panel as it allows an optimal use of a photovoltaic system, regardless of irradiation and temperature variations. In this research, we present a novel technique to improve the control’s performances optimization of the system consisting of a photovoltaic panel, a buck converter and a load. Simulations of different parts of the system are developed under Matlab/Simulink, thus allowing a comparison between the performances of the three studied controllers: “Fuzzy TS”, “P&O” and “PSO”. The three algorithms of MPPT associated with these techniques are tested in different meteorological conditions. The obtained results, in different operating conditions, reveal a clear improvement of controlling performances of MPPT of a photovoltaic system when the PSO tracking technique is used.

State coordinated voltage control in an active distribution network with on-load tap changers and photovoltaic systems

Decreasing costs and favorable policies have resulted in increased penetration of solar photovoltaic(PV)power generation in distribution networks.As the PV systems penetration is likely to increase in the future,utilizing the reactive power capability of PV inverters to mitigate voltage deviations is being promoted.In recent years,droop control of inverter-based distributed energy resources has emerged as an essential tool for use in this study.The participation of PV systems in voltage regulation and its coordination with existing controllers,such as on-load tap changers,is paramount for controlling the voltage within specified limits.In this work,control strategies are presented that can be coordinated with the existing controls in a distributed manner.The effectiveness of the proposed method was demonstrated through simulation results on a distribution system.

Weather Prediction With Multiclass Support Vector Machines in the Fault Detection of Photovoltaic System

Since the efficiency of photovoltaic(PV) power is closely related to the weather,many PV enterprises install weather instruments to monitor the working state of the PV power system.With the development of the soft measurement technology,the instrumental method seems obsolete and involves high cost.This paper proposes a novel method for predicting the types of weather based on the PV power data and partial meteorological data.By this method,the weather types are deduced by data analysis,instead of weather instrument A better fault detection is obtained by using the support vector machines(SVM) and comparing the predicted and the actual weather.The model of the weather prediction is established by a direct SVM for training multiclass predictors.Although SVM is suitable for classification,the classified results depend on the type of the kernel,the parameters of the kernel,and the soft margin coefficient,which are difficult to choose.In this paper,these parameters are optimized by particle swarm optimization(PSO) algorithm in anticipation of good prediction results can be achieved.Prediction results show that this method is feasible and effective.

Comprehensive Modulation and Classification of Faults and Analysis Their Effect in DC Side of Photovoltaic System

The first step in automatic supervision, condition monitoring and fault detection of photovoltaic system is recognition, exploration and classification of all possible faults that maybe happen in the system. This paper aims to perceive, classified, simulate and discus all electrical faults in DC side of photovoltaic system, regarding electrical voltage and current inspections. For that, simplified hybrid model of photovoltaic panel in MATLAB environment is used. Investigation and classification of each type of faults is down and the effects of the faults are illustrated in this paper. Flash test are applied to improved electrical model. Current-Voltage curves signature are interpreted and investigated in simulation environment.

Comparative assessment of maximum power point tracking procedures for photovoltaic systems

The fast growing demands and increasing awareness for the environment, PV systems are being rapidly installed for numerous applications.However, one of the important challenges in utilizing a PV source is the maximum power harnessing using various maximum power point tracking techniques available. With the large number of MPPT techniques, each having some merits and demerits, confusion is always there for their proper selection. Discussion on various proposed procedures for maximum power point tracking of photovoltaic array has been done. Based on different parameters analysis of MPPT techniques is carried out. This assessment will serve as a suitable reference for selection, understanding different ways and means of MPPT.

Comprehensive review and performance evaluation of maximum power point tracking algorithms for photovoltaic system

A photovoltaic array is environmentally friendly and a source of unlimited energy generation.However,it is presently a costlier energy generation system than other non-renewable energy sources.The main reasons are seasonal variations and continuously changing weather conditions,which affect the amount of solar energy received by the solar panels.In addition,the non-linear characteristics of the voltage and current outputs along with the operating environment temperature and variation in the solar radiation decrease the energy conversion capability of the photovoltaic arrays.To address this problem,the global maxima of the PV arrays can be tracked using a maximum power point tracking algorithm(MPPT)and the operating point of the photovoltaic system can be forced to its optimum value.This technique increases the efficiency of the photovoltaic array and minimizes the cost of the system by reducing the number of solar modules required to obtain the desired power.However,the tracking algorithms are not equally effective in all areas of application.Therefore,selecting the correct MPPT is very critical.This paper presents a detailed review and comparison of the MPPT techniques for photovoltaic systems,with consideration of the following key parameters:photovoltaic array dependence,type of system(analog or digital),need for periodic tuning,convergence speed,complexity of the system,global maxima,implemented capacity,and sensed parameter(s).In addition,based on real meteorological data(irradiance and temperature at a site located in Addis Ababa,Ethiopia),a simulation is performed to evaluate the performance of tracking algorithms suitable for the application being studied.Finally,the study clearly validates the considerable energy saving achieved by using these algorithms.

Convex decomposition of concave clouds for the ultra-short-term power prediction of distributed photovoltaic system

Concave clouds will cause miscalculation by the power prediction model based on cloud features for distributed photovoltaic( PV) plant. The algorithm for decomposing concave cloud into convex images is proposed. Adopting minimum polygonal approximation( MPP) to demonstrate the contour of concave cloud,cloud features are described and the subdivision lines of convex decomposition for the concave clouds are determined by the centroid point scattering model and centroid angle function,which realizes the convex decomposition of concave cloud. The result of MATLAB simulation indicates that the proposed algorithm can accurately detect cloud contour corners and recognize the concave points. The proposed decomposition algorithm has advantages of less time complexity and decomposition part numbers compared to traditional algorithms. So the established model can make the convex decomposition of complex concave clouds completely and quickly,which is available for the existing prediction algorithm for the ultra-short-term power output of distributed PV system based on the cloud features.

Development of Cloud Movement Prediction Method for Solar Photovoltaic System

Variability of power generation due to the prevalence of cloud cover over solar photovoltaics(PV)power plants is a challenge faced by grid operators and independent system operators(ISOs)in the integration of solar energy into the grid.Solar forecasts generated through ground⁃based sky imaging systems are useful for short⁃term cloud motion predictions.However,the cost of sky imaging systems currently available in industries is relatively high.Hence,a ground⁃based camera system utilizing a simple webcam is proposed in this study.The proposed method can produce predictions with high levels of accuracy.Forecasts were generated through video analysis using MATLAB for the computation of cloud motion predictions.The image processing involved in the implementation of the proposed system is based on the detection of cloud regions in the form of a cluster of white pixels within individual frames and tracking their motion through comparison of subsequent frames.This study describes the techniques and processes used in the development of the proposed method,along with the evaluation of performance through analysis of the results.The predictions were carried out over multiple time horizons.The time horizons selected include 5,10,15,20,25,and 30 s.The overall results computed showed promising accuracy levels above 94.60%,which makes it adequate for generating reliable forecasts.

Optimization and Sizing of a Stand-Alone Photovoltaic System and Assessment of Random Load Fluctuation on Power Supply

This study presents an optimization technique and design for a stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system to provide the required electricity for a single residential household in remote areas. From the basic solar components analysis, the irradiance on tilted surface is derived and compared to that on horizontal surface for Furu-Awa locality to infer the appropriate tilt angle (β) that maximizes the collection of solar energy. Seven optimum values of β applicable to the PV network were then derived depending of the period of the year and this simulation resulted that the panels are to be adjusted seven times a year. The optimization technique for load demand based on total apparent power of the household appliances produces an increase of 18% compared to the simple case of the PV components design using active power but leads to the optimum configuration that meets the real load demand of the household. Following the sizing of the station, reliability tests simulations were conducted for a one year corresponding period to infer the sensitivity of power supply to initial state of charge, to check the system autonomy and to evaluate the effect of random variation of the load on the smooth functioning of the PV system using a pseudo random number generator. This analysis shows that the minimum capacity of the battery for normal run of the Plan is 22.2% and that with random fluctuation of load, there will be periods of the year where the system experiences power failure depending on how important is the variation. The result of the study may imply a small increase in the cost of the entire plant but improves the stability and flexibility of such a station.

Study of Solar Radiation in View of Photovoltaic Systems Optimization

The meteorological data concerning solar radiation are generally not sufficient to allow quantifying all the phenomena which occur when a photovoltaic panel receives solar light. It is therefore, necessary to supplement these data by using astronomical calculation for the sun position and modelling the atmosphere. A simple method to calculate global, diffuse and direct irradiance on vertical and tilted surfaces for all uniform sky conditions (clear sky and overcast sky), developed in Constantine (Algeria) and Louvain-la-neuve (Belgium), has been compared with experimental data obtained at Ghardaia (Algeria). In spite of its simplicity, the method furnishes reasonably good predictions, in comparison with experimental data, and can be proposed as a simpli?ed tool for design purposes. This method relies on the fact that we can calculate the irradiance on a plane with arbitrary orientation and inclination, based on the measurement of a single irradiance value on a reference plane.

Off-Grid Photovoltaic System Design for Haiti School Project

In this paper a Photovoltaic (PV) system was designed for the Port-Margot School Solar Project in Haiti. This off-grid system consists of PV panels, inverter, battery storage and other components such as fuses, dc/ac disconnects and transformers [1]. Sizing the PV to fit on the roof was determined. The battery storage and inverter were chosen to be installed in the school building. The expected energy production was compared with data file from NASA website. The KW PV system was chosen to be the most effective and demonstrating renewable technologies and reducing the electrical load of the school.

Evaluation of the Criteria in the Choice of Energy Storage or Non-Storage in Photovoltaic Systems in the Sahelian Zone

In order to have a characterization of the criteria determining the choice of energy storage or non-storage in PV systems in the Sahelian zone, we used the research methodology described as a follow-up. First, we identify the criteria that determine the choice of energy storage or non-storage. In the rest of the work, we establish a prioritization of its criteria. Finally, the two phases written above, allowed us to develop an approach characterized by the weighting of the criticality index, which we implemented using the global decision matrixes of the AMDEC method (Analysis of the Modes of Failures of their Effects and Criticism). The validation of the model followed the rigour of the scientific approach through the methodology used. Thus, the validation of the choice of the specific criteria was made on our personal experience in pv, and the recurrence of its criteria in the literature encountered. The validation of the prioritization of the criteria is based on the quality of the results resulting from the rigorous application of the AMDEC method. This work refers to the problem of whether or not to set up an energy storage method to compensate for the off-peak periods (nights and obstacles that occur in the days) of energy production of the photovoltaic system. A determination of the determining criteria, in the choice of energy storage or non-storage in PV systems in the Sahelian zone, was made. The work also made it possible to establish a prioritization of these last criteria. The results obtained show that the proposed method allows for a prioritization of the determining criteria in the choice of energy storage or non-storage in PV systems in the Sahelian zone.

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.

Performance and Efficiency Simulation Study of a Smart-Grid Connected Photovoltaic System

The availability of non-renewable energy sources such as crude oil, natural gas, coal etc., is fast diminishing. So the renewable energy sources such as solar, hydropower, geothermal, wind, tidal energy, are gaining more and more importance. Many new developments to convert these renewable energy sources into usable forms are taking place. Most renewable energy sources are used to produce electricity. In this paper, a performance and efficiency simulation study of a smart-grid connected photovoltaic system using Chroma DC programmable power supply, AC programmable source and an Aurora Inverter is proposed. The simulation is performed in MATLAB environment where the Current-Voltage (I-V) and Power-Voltage (P-V) curves from the solar array simulator are generated and plotted. The proposed topology has been verified with satisfactory results. In addition, temperature and irradiance effects on I-V and P-V characteristic curves are verified. Also, the efficiency curves of the photovoltaic grid interface inverter are generated in the study. The MATLAB code developed in this paper is a valuable tool for design engineers comparing different inverters, calculating the optimum efficiency of a given inverter type.

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.

Stand-Alone Photovoltaic System to Mitigate Pollution in Bodies of Water CASE Study: Laguna Del Carpintero, Tampico, Tamaulipas

One of the main environmental issues at present times is the pollution of hydrological resources. Water quality is a major factor to ecosystems, mostly those that support human health, food production and biodiversity. The utilization of renewable energy sources as solar energy through Photovoltaic Cells is a competitive and consolidated option to approach the solution of this kind of issues. This document is intended to introduce a prototype powered by photovoltaic cells to aerate a body of water and increase the amount of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) in water. The body of water studied is the lagoon Laguna del Carpintero in Tampico, Tamaulipas, Mexico. A Stand-alone Photovoltaic System (SPS) prototype was designed for this matter with the purpose of powering a pumping system to sprinkle water to the lake’s surface. This system is a way of ventilating the water so that it gets in direct contact with the surrounding atmosphere obtaining mean values compared to prevailing values of DO contained in the lagoon. We obtained DO concentration values going from 7 to 8 mg/L of O2 in different tests which can be considered an appropriate parameter for this body of water. The efficiency of the SPS was proved as it showed good performance by supplying power to the oxygenation system compared to the dimensional estimate. Improving the SPS prototype is the main goal of this work so that this oxygenation system could be used in other urban lagoons in the surrounding area without being powered by electrical grid. This makes possible to locate it at any point of the body of water to mitigate the pollution by increasing the amount of DO.

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.