Power Electronics and Its Application to Solar Photovoltaic Systems in India

Out of many renewable energy resources, solar energy is one of the conspicuous sources of energy which can supply the increasing demand of energy. As of May 2014, India has an installed PV capacity of 2.5 GW. The solar photovoltaic project includes power electronics with high quality performance devices, incorporated with smart energy management principles. Power electronics is used to improve the energy efficiency of apparatus, and help the generation of environmentally clean energy. In this article the explanation of role of power electronics and the discussion about similar and future concepts in solar photovoltaic systems related to reliability and advancement of each technology in India has been presented.

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.

Performance Assessment of Motorized Solar Photovoltaic Louvers System Using PVSYST Software

In the realm of technological market penetration of solar photovoltaic louvers(PVL)addressing environmental difficulties and the industrial revolution,a new avenue of renewable energy is introduced.Moreover,solar energy exploitation through building façades was addressed through motorized solar photovoltaic louvers(MPVL).On the other hand,proponents exalted the benefits of MPVL overlooking the typical analyses.In this communication,we attempted to perform a thorough industrial system evaluation of the MPVL.This communication presents a methodology to validate the industrial claims about MPVL devices and their economic efficiency and the insight on how geographical location influences their utilization and augment their potential benefits.This task is carried out by evaluating the extent of solar energy that can be harvested using solar photovoltaic system(PVSYST)software and investigating whether existing product claims are associated with MPVL are feasible in different locations.The performance and operational losses(temperature,internal network,power electronics)were evaluated.To design and assess the performance of different configurations based on the geographical analogy,simulation tools were successfully carried out based on different topographical locations.Based on these findings,various factors affect the employment of MPVL such as geographical and weather conditions,solar irradiation,and installation efficiency.tt is assumed that we successfully shed light and provided insights into the complexity associated with MPVL.

Forestvoltaics,Floatovoltaics and Building Applied Photovoltaics(BAPV)Potential for a University Campus

The United Nations’Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs)highlight the importance of affordable and clean energy sources.Solar energy is a perfect example,being both renewable and abundant.Its popularity shows no signs of slowing down,with solar photovoltaic(PV)panels being the primary technology for converting sunlight into electricity.Advancements are continuously being made to ensure cost-effectiveness,high-performing cells,extended lifespans,and minimal maintenance requirements.This study focuses on identifying suitable locations for implementing solar PVsystems at theUniversityMalaysia PahangAl SultanAbdullah(UMPSA),Pekan campus including buildings,water bodies,and forest areas.A combined technical and economic analysis is conducted using Helioscope for simulations and the Photovoltaic Geographic Information System(PVGIS)for economic considerations.Helioscope simulation examine case studies for PV installations in forested areas,lakes,and buildings.This approach provides comprehensive estimations of solar photovoltaic potential,annual cost savings,electricity costs,and greenhouse gas emission reductions.Based on land coverage percentages,Floatovoltaics have a large solar PV capacity of 32.3 Megawatts(MW);forest-based photovoltaics(Forestvoltaics)achieve maximum yearly savings of RM 37,268,550;and Building Applied Photovoltaics(BAPV)have the lowest CO2 emissions and net carbon dioxide reduction compared to other plant sizes.It also clarifies the purpose of using both software tools to achieve a comprehensive understanding of both technical and economic aspects.

Probabilistic Global Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithm for Continuously Varying Partial Shading Conditions on Autonomous PV Systems

A photovoltaic (PV) string with multiple modules with bypass diodes frequently deployed on a variety of autonomous PV systems may present multiple power peaks under uneven shading. For optimal solar harvesting, there is a need for a control schema to force the PV string to operate at global maximum power point (GMPP). While a lot of tracking methods have been proposed in the literature, they are usually complex and do not fully take advantage of the available characteristics of the PV array. This work highlights how the voltage at operating point and the forward voltage of the bypass diode are considered to design a global maximum power point tracking (GMPPT) algorithm with a very limited global search phase called Fast GMPPT. This algorithm successfully tracks GMPP between 94% and 98% of the time under a theoretical evaluation. It is then compared against Perturb and Observe, Deterministic Particle Swarm Optimization, and Grey Wolf Optimization under a sequence of irradiance steps as well as a power-over-voltage characteristics profile that mimics the electrical characteristics of a PV string under varying partial shading conditions. Overall, the simulation with the sequence of irradiance steps shows that while Fast GMPPT does not have the best convergence time, it has an excellent convergence rate as well as causes the least amount of power loss during the global search phase. Experimental test under varying partial shading conditions shows that while the GMPPT proposal is simple and lightweight, it is very performant under a wide range of dynamically varying partial shading conditions and boasts the best energy efficiency (94.74%) out of the 4 tested algorithms.

Analysis for Effects of Temperature Rise of PV Modules upon Driving Distance of Vehicle Integrated Photovoltaic Electric Vehicles

The development of vehicle integrated photovoltaics-powered electric vehicles (VIPV-EV) significantly reduces CO2 emissions from the transport sector to realize a decarbonized society. Although long-distance driving of VIPV-EV without electricity charging is expected in sunny regions, driving distance of VIPV-EV is affected by climate conditions such as solar irradiation and temperature rise of PV modules. In this paper, detailed analytical results for effects of climate conditions such as solar irradiation and temperature rise of PV modules upon driving distance of the VIPV-EV were presented by using test data for Toyota Prius and Nissan Van demonstration cars installed with high-efficiency InGaP/GaAs/InGaAs 3-junction solar cell modules with a module efficiency of more than 30%. The temperature rise of some PV modules studied in this study was shown to be expressed by some coefficients related to solar irradiation, wind speed and radiative cooling. The potential of VIPV-EV to be deployed in 10 major cities was also analyzed. Although sunshine cities such as Phoenix show the high reduction ratio of driving range with 17% due to temperature rise of VIPV modules, populous cities such as Tokyo show low reduction ratio of 9%. It was also shown in this paper that the difference between the driving distance of VIPV-EV driving in the morning and the afternoon is due to PV modules’ radiative cooling. In addition, the importance of heat dissipation of PV modules and the development of high-efficiency PV modules with better temperature coefficients was suggested in order to expand driving range of VIPV-EV. The effects of air-conditioner usage and partial shading in addition to the effects of temperature rise of VIPV modules were suggested as the other power losses of VIPV-EV.

PV Capacity Evaluation Using ASTM E2848: Techniques for Accuracy and Reliability in Bifacial Systems

A variety of test methodologies are commonly used to assess if a photovoltaic system can perform in line with expectations generated by a computer simulation. One of the commonly used methodologies across the PV industry is an ASTM E2848. ASTM E2848-13, 2023 test method provides measurement and analysis procedures for determining the capacity of a specific photovoltaic system built in a particular place and in operation under natural sunlight. This test method is mainly used for acceptance testing of newly installed photovoltaic systems, reporting of DC or AC system performance, and monitoring of photovoltaic system performance. The purpose of the PV Capacity Test and modeled energy test is to verify that the integrated system formed from all components of the PV Project has a production capacity that achieves the Guaranteed Capacity and the Guaranteed modeled AEP under measured weather conditions that occur when each PV Capacity Test is conducted. In this paper, we will be discussing ASTM E2848 PV Capacity test plan purpose and scope, methodology, Selection of reporting conditions (RC), data requirements, calculation of results, reporting, challenges, acceptance criteria on pass/fail test results, Cure period, and Sole remedy for EPC contractors for bifacial irradiance.

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.

Decision Technique of Solar Radiation Prediction Applying Recurrent Neural Network for Short-Term Ahead Power Output of Photovoltaic System

In recent years, introduction of a renewable energy source such as solar energy is expected. However, solar radiation is not constant and power output of photovoltaic (PV) system is influenced by weather conditions. It is difficult for getting to know accurate power output of PV system. In order to forecast the power output of PV system as accurate as possible, this paper proposes a decision technique of forecasting model for short-term-ahead power output of PV system based on solar radiation prediction. Application of Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) is shown for solar radiation prediction in this paper. The proposed method in this paper does not require complicated calculation, but mathematical model with only useful weather data. The validity of the proposed RNN is confirmed by comparing simulation results of solar radiation forecasting with that obtained from other

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.

Application of Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping System in Hainan Agriculture

With radical socio-economic development and strengthening of regulation of agricultural industrial structure in Hainan Province,fresh water resource becomes increasingly insufficient.Existing water-saving facilities and measures are unable to promote sustainable and stable development of local economy.This needs modern irrigation method.Solar photovoltaic water pumping system is necessary and feasible in Hainan agriculture,and will have directive significance for Hainan Province developing photovoltaic agriculture.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Electro-Optical Model of Soiling Effects on Photovoltaic Panels and Performance Implications

In this paper,a detailed model of a photovoltaic(PV)panel is used to study the accumulation of dust on solar panels.The presence of dust diminishes the incident light intensity penetrating the panel’s cover glass,as it increases the reflection of light by particles.This phenomenon,commonly known as the“soiling effect”,presents a significant challenge to PV systems on a global scale.Two basic models of the equivalent circuits of a solar cell can be found,namely the single-diode model and the two-diode models.The limitation of efficiency data in manufacturers’datasheets has encouraged us to develop an equivalent electrical model that is efficient under dust conditions,integrated with optical transmittance considerations to investigate the soiling effect.The proposed approach is based on the use of experimental current-voltage(I-V)characteristics with simulated data using MATLAB/Simulink.Our research outcomes underscores the feasibility of accurately quantifying the reduction in energy production resulting from soiling by assessing the optical transmittance of accumulated dust on the surface of PV glass.

Overview of Maximum Power Point Tracking Control Methods for PV Systems

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers play an important role in photovoltaic systems. They maximize the output power of a PV array for a given set of conditions. This paper presents an overview of the different MPPT techniques. Each technique is evaluated on its ability to detect multiple maxima, convergence speed, ease of implementation, efficiency over a wide output power range, and cost of implementation. The perturbation and observation (P & O), and incremental conductance (IC) algorithms are widely used techniques, with many variants and optimization techniques reported. For this reason, this paper evaluates the performance of these two common approaches from a dynamic and steady state perspective.

Design of a Photovoltaic Mini-Grid System for Rural Electrification in Sub-Saharan Africa

This paper presents a detailed design of a photovoltaic (PV) system for use in the rural electrification of remote settlements that are far off from the electricity grid. Since investment in building transmission lines from the grid to these localities is not viable, a good solution is an installation in these areas of standalone photovoltaic systems. The design process comprises the choice and dimensioning of the solar panels, the battery storage, DC-AC inverter, and mini transmission grid to the different homes. The design is for a 15 kW PV system including an economic evaluation and analysis using Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software. Data on the average monthly solar radiation and temperature were obtained from various sources, including, Photovoltaic Geographical Information System (PVGIS) for Africa. From this data the study area receives a monthly average solar insolation of 6.16 kWh/m2/day with the worst month being August with 5.22 kWh/m2/day. The total daily electrical energy consumption is estimated to be about 72.525 kWh. Simulation results using HOMER software shows that the overall capital cost of the PV system components is $122,337, a replacement cost of $12,889 and an operation and maintenance cost of $29,946 over 10years. A financial analysis of the system showed that the design was both viable and sustainable with low maintenance cost.

Some Remarks about the Deployment of Floating PV Systems in Brazil

Floating photovoltaic systems installed in water bodies such as natural lakes or dams reservoirs, have attracted increased worldwide attention since 2011 and have already been deployed in several countries, including Japan, South Korea and USA. In Brazil, pilot-projects were announced in the reservoirs of hydroelectric power plants of Balbina （State of Amazonas） and Sobradinho （State of Bahia）. Several advantages, not necessarily valid in Brazil, are mentioned for deploying this kind of technology, such as an increase in energy generation, reduction of water losses through evaporation, low environmental impact, no occupation of land etc. In this article, several of these allegations are analyzed preliminarily under the Brazilian point of view, and relevant considerations are presented. It is concluded that the technical and economic advantages of floating photovoltaic systems are not yet clear in Brazil and that pilot projects, such as those under way, should be used to clarify several important aspects related to them.

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 ieatures 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 func- tion, which realizes the convex decomposition of concave cloud. The result of MATLAB simulation indicates that the proposed algorithm can accurately detect cloud contour comers 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.