Features of operation of photovoltaic plants as a supplementary source of electricity for non-traction consumers of railway electric mains

Abstract

Purpose. To determine the features of operation of photovoltaic stations as а supplementary source of electricity for non-traction consumers of railway power grids. The research methodology is based on modern methods of computational mathematics, statistics and information analysis using modern computer technology. Findings. The authors analyze the current prerequisites for the use of electricity obtained from non-traditional sources (photovoltaic stations) to supply non-traction consumers of railway power grids. The nature of the intensity of solar radiation was clarified due to meteorological observations for 2018, recorded using a SMIR pyranometer from KIRP & ZONEN, which is specially designed to record the flow of solar energy falling on a flat surface from the sun and sky in the wavelength range from 300 to 3000 nanometers (Nm), which has an intelligent interface, in the city of Vasylivka, Zaporizhia region with an interval of minutes. The total number of values was about 25,000. The data obtained are as follows: the lowest intensity of solar radiation during 2018 was 400 W / m2, and the highest - 1000 W / m2. The calculation of the choice of photovoltaic panels type PV-MLV 250 NS with a maximum power of 250 W for the completion of a specific photovoltaic station for installation in the specified region. The authors conclude that in order to provide reliable energy supply to non-traction consumers of railway power grids during the day from autonomous solar power plants, the latter must be provided with electricity (storage batteries) in quantities exceeding the required load by about 1.7 times. The originality is that the use of renewable energy sources in the power supply systems of non-traction consumers of railway transport, in particular photovoltaic installations, is proposed. Practical implications. Introduction of photovoltaic stations as a supplementary source of electricity for non-traction consumers of railway power grids in order to minimize electricity costs. Keywords: renewable energy sources, quality of electric energy, photovoltaic plant, power supply networks of railway transport, non-traction consumers of railway electric networks, electricity production, solar radiation intensity, storage batteries.