Optimization of photovoltaic energy production through an efficient switching matrix

Romano P.,Candela R.Cardinale

doi:10.13044/j.sdewes.2013.01.0017

Abstract

This work presents a preliminary study on the implementation of a new system for power output maximization of photovoltaic generators under non-homogeneous conditions. The study evaluates the performance of an efficient switching matrix and the relevant automatic reconfiguration control algorithms. The switching matrix is installed between the PV generator and the inverter, allowing a large number of possible module configurations. PV generator, switching matrix and the intelligent controller have been simulated in Simulink. The proposed reconfiguration system improved the energy extracted by the PV generator under non-uniform solar irradiation conditions. Short calculation times of the proposed control algorithms allow its use in real time applications even where a higher number of PV modules is required.

Highlights

The benefits brought by photovoltaic power generation include limited environmental impact and reduced installation costs, with the added incentive of government subsidy in many countries
This is carried out by Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms [1,2,3,4,5,6] implemented on the inverter
In [12] the issue of non-homogeneous solar irradiation was considered, but only a few configurations were explored and no automatic optimization algorithm was implemented for larger systems

Summary

INTRODUCTION

The benefits brought by photovoltaic power generation include limited environmental impact and reduced installation costs, with the added incentive of government subsidy in many countries. Devices achieve the objective of maximizing output power by means of suitable conditioning systems that adapt the load to the generation system. This is carried out by Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms [1,2,3,4,5,6] implemented on the inverter. The authors propose a new and efficient system for the maximization of the power output generated by the PV system by means of a suitable reconfiguration of the modules. The proposed system is described and optimization algorithms are explained and compared; in the simulation section, the relevant results are reported

RECONFIGURABLE SWITCHING MATRIX

THE OPTIMAL RECONFIGURATION ALGORITHMS

SIMULATION OF THE PROPOSED PV SYSTEM

Findings

CONCLUSIONS