Optimal Design and Performance Analysis of a Grid Connected Photovoltaic System in Togo

Abstract

In Togo, the production of electrical energy is mainly hydroelectric and thermal, but the needs remain far greater than the resources; in particular in the city of Lome, the inhabitants of the city try to fill this energy deficit, among others, by solar systems. Once installed, and in the presence of the sun, solar panels operate continuously until the end of their service, regardless of whether the use is effective or not; which therefore causes losses in the event of overproduction and non-storage. To overcome this problem, we have studied in this article a PV installation (a solar power plant) which is connected to the electrical network, which represents a significant saving in investment and in operation. Thus, in our study, we designed and optimized our PV-Grid model which shows a photovoltaic system connected to the electricity grid through DC / DC boosting power converters and a DC / AC inverter. In this model, we have fixed the meteorological conditions relating to Togo, such as incident solar illumination and temperature, thus making it possible to fix the reference variables Ipvref (photovoltaic current produced) on the DC / DC side and Irmref (final current injected into the network) on the DC / AC side. Thanks to the results obtained, we can recommend this model of photovoltaic system connected to the grid under Togo's conditions and at the same time develop an energy policy and an integration of renewable electricity in Togo strong enough to trigger long-term sustainable development.