Photovoltaic-Based Residential Direct-Current Microgrid and Its Comprehensive Performance Evaluation

Abstract

The “dual carbon” strategy has drawn attention to distributed PV systems for their flexibility and variability, but the rising need for direct-current (DC) loads on the load side has created additional difficulties for microgrid system upgrades. In this article, a PV-based microgrid design approach for residential buildings is suggested, working on the assumption that distributed PV systems are given top priority to handle domestic DC needs. The residential DC microgrid system’s overall design concept is first put out, and the circuit system is then concentrated to supply the main idea for the ensuing verification of the system’s viability. Secondly, the actual power generation in the selected area was clarified by testing, and then the electricity consumption of DC loads accounted for about 20.03% of the total power consumption according to the survey of 100 users. In addition, the circuit system is subjected to spectral model measurements and physical measurements to verify the operational performance of the circuit system; the feasibility of the PV microgrid system is further verified using dual testing of the PV system and the circuit system. The test results show that the proposed DC microgrid system can accurately provide the required voltage for small household DC appliances, such as 24 V, 14 V, 5 V, etc. Finally, the system economics were analyzed, and the equipment payback years were estimated. The supply and demand of PV power generation and DC appliances can be balanced via the construction of a microgrid. This study offers a fresh concept for the use of PV technology. The concept behind this research can serve as a model for the creation and application of other new energy sources.