Design and implementation of an active optimized optical green energy generation system using ultraviolet solar irradiance

Abstract

This paper proposes a methodology of optimum power point tracking for tandem solar cell technology to generate green energy. It utilizes an active optical solar tracking and concentrating system, employing ultraviolet (UV) parts: UVA and UVB (280–400 nm), from the solar irradiations. Hence, devises a methodology to avoid complex maximum power point tracking hardware and presents a use of UV solar irradiation. It can be used as an alternative to the conventional concentrated photovoltaic system as well. The performance of the proposed system is also optimized for its output power fixed at a required value of the interest with fewer fluctuations and heating effects. Working of the proposed system is based on a solar irradiance, intensity-dependent axial movement of the light funnel with its variable aperture, and the W/m2 created by a Fresnel lens. The proposed system finds its utility for places where the UV index is recorded at its highest ≥ +11 allowing UV radiations to reach the earth at high levels. The proposed approach is validated, to fulfill fixed energy demand of a thermolysis process against its constant output power claim. For the purpose, firstly absorption response of a quadruple junction solar cell is investigated and made sure that it is capable of operating on UVA and UVB. Secondly, to achieve a constant irradiance level on solar panel surface, control systems along three-axes are designed based on the least-squares optimization criterion to minimize the tracking error and keep the irradiation fixed to a reference value of 1000 W/m2.