Optimal sizing of a stand-alone photovoltaic systems under various weather conditions in Algeria

Abstract

This paper presents an analytical method for technical-economic optimization of a stand-alone photovoltaic system. The loss of load probability concepts for the reliability and the total system cost for the economic criteria. The main objective of this study is to find the optimum PV generator area and useful battery storage capacity of a stand-alone photovoltaic system. Mathematical equations have been formulated and LOLP curves have been constructed. A set of configuration meeting the desired LOLP are obtained. The configuration with the minimum cost gives the optimal one. A case study has been presented to determine the optimal sizing of a stand-alone photovoltaic system for eight sites located at Algeria and to analyze the impact of different parameters on the system size. This proposed analytical method is rational in terms of reliability and cost and simple to implement for the size optimization of a stand-alone photovoltaic system at any geographical location.