Location and orientation based performance analysis of 4.98 kWp solar photovoltaic system for isolated Indian islands

Abstract

The electricity needs of Indian islands are supplied primarily by diesel generators, whereas solar photovoltaic (SPV) power can fulfil most of the electricity requirements. The performance analysis is the correct path to assess the potential and design aspects for the sustainable growth of future SPV installations. In this regard, several studies have been performed, but the influence of various solar trackers on the performance of the SPV system in Indian islands has not been considered thoroughly. This article investigates the feasibility and evaluates the performance indices of 4.98 kWp SPV systems in different islands (Agatti, Chetlat, Minicoy, and Port Blair) considering fixed axis tracking. Moreover, the effect of various tracking systems (one axis, two axis, azimuth axis, and seasonal tilt) on the system's performance have also been analysed in Port Blair island. The methodology includes the collection of legacy data from NSRDB, modelling of SPV system in System Advisor Model platform, and formulation of performance indices according to IEC 61724 standards. The study has found that the system's annual AC energy productions (AEP) in Agatti, Chetlat, Minicoy, and Port Blair islands are 7,560.91 kWh, 7,468.83 kWh, 7,495.21 kWh, and 6,935.06 kWh, respectively. Additionally, the AEP in Port Blair Island for one axis, two axis, azimuth axis and seasonal tilt tracking is increased by 19%, 25%, 9%, and 4%, respectively, compared to fixed axis tracking. The study has also found that the yearly mean normalized reference yield, array yield, final yield, array capture losses, system loss, performance ratio and capacity factor are in the range of (5.41–6.86) h/d, (4.03–5.04) h/d, (3.82–4.79) h/d, (1.39–1.82) h/d, (0.21–0.25) h/d, (70.07–70.88)%, and (15.92–19.94)% respectively. Finally, the analysis has proven that the SPV system with two axis tracking is technically viable for isolated Indian islands.