Photovoltaic System Configurations Research Articles

Optimal dimensioning of renewable energy generation and storage systems

With high energy demand and large available area, agricultural farms offer significant potential for renewable energy investments, like photovoltaic systems and electrical energy storages. However, the profitability of such investments depends strongly on self-consumption, so accurate planning requires computation-intensive simulation and optimization considering local consumption. This study presents a novel methodology for the optimal dimensioning and configuration of photovoltaic systems and electrical energy storages using efficient techniques from continuous non-linear optimization. Combining physical and economic models with measured consumption data, an investment’s net present value over 20 years is maximized. Using gradient-based solver WORHP, the simulation, optimal control, and optimal dimensioning of the local energy system are calculated simultaneously, allowing for efficient computation over an entire year of hourly data to capture both daily and seasonal variations.The approach is demonstrated with simple use cases, including an exemplary day of a dairy farm’s consumption, for which optimal systems with and without storage achieve 77% and 43% of autarky, respectively. Saturation effects of optimal plant size can be observed when sizes are large enough for optimal self-consumption but not expanded further for grid export. With energy storage, this saturation is reached at higher values. Optimizing photovoltaic plants with different orientations to match the specific consumption patterns characteristic of the dairy farm achieves similar autarky as a single plant while reducing investment costs by more than 20%. While thorough validation and comparison against heuristic methods predominantly used in the field is part of ongoing research, the presented use cases demonstrate the flexibility and efficiency of the proposed method and highlight its promise as a planning tool in the agricultural domain and beyond.

Optimizing photovoltaic system configurations for domestic refrigerators in Miliana, Algeria: a simulation study

This study investigates the optimal configuration of a photovoltaic system to operate a home refrigerator with a power consumption of 130 watts. The research focuses on the city of Miliana, Algeria, analyzing the effects of local solar radiation and ambient temperature on battery charging dynamics throughout the year. Using MATLAB simulation techniques, we identified a 450 W solar panel coupled with a 150 Ah battery as the most efficient configuration to meet the power requirements of the refrigerator. Our findings highlight the fast charging capability of this PV system, achieving fast battery charging while maintaining a balance between energy production and consumption. However, we have also determined that increasing battery capacity beyond this limit results in longer charging times, shorter battery life cycles, and higher costs, which are counterproductive to the PV refrigerator-coupled system. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating local climate conditions into the design of solar energy systems to ensure robust and sustainable energy solutions. The proposed configuration promises to reduce dependence on traditional energy sources, encourage the use of renewable energy in residential environments, and enhance environmental sustainability. Future research should evaluate these configurations in diverse geographic locations to validate and optimize the system for broader application, and explore advanced battery technologies to further improve efficiency and longevity.

Intelligent Solar System for Effective Renewable Energy

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are gaining popularity as a sustainable and renewable energy solution. Charge controllers play a crucial role in maximizing the energy harvested from PV panels and ensuring efficient battery charging. This study presents a comprehensive comparison between Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge controllers, analyzing their performance, efficiency, and suitability for different PV system configurations. The analysis begins with an overview of PWM charge controllers, which regulate the charging process by rapidly switching the PV panel voltage on and off. PWM controllers are known for their simplicity, affordability, and reliability. However, their fixed voltage operation limits their ability to extract maximum power from the PV panels, especially in scenarios with varying solar irradiance and temperature conditions. In contrast, MPPT charge controllers employ advanced algorithms to continuously track the maximum power point (MPP) of the PV panels. By dynamically adjusting the operating voltage and current, MPPT controllers can optimize the power transfer from the PV panels to the battery bank. This capability results in higher energy harvesting, especially in situations with partial shading or non-ideal operating conditions.

Solar energy generation from residential buildings, transition of the energy sector from fossils to carbon-free energy and meeting UN SDG

Purpose This study aims to focus on the transition of Kosovo’s energy generation sector from fossil fuels (94%), to renewable sources. The installation of 10 kW photovoltaic (PV) panels in individual houses will mitigate CO2 emissions from electrical energy generation and contribute meeting the sustainable development goals (SDGs; 7, 11 and 13) set by United Nations General Assembly. This study case is based on the installation of PV panels on the roofs, and where possible on the facades of the private residential buildings in seven, the most populated towns of Kosovo (Prishtina, Prizren, Mitrovica, Peja, Gjakova, Ferizaj and Gjilan). Design/methodology/approach This study used the data, in regard to direct normal irradiation, altitude, coordinates, PV system configurations, specific PV power output and optimum tilt of PV panels specific for the selected locations,retrieved from Global Solar Atlas, which is a web-based-tool, as provided by “Solargis,”a company that provides online and commercial solar data resources, selected by The World Bank and the International Finance Corporation. The second software was RETScreen Expert, which is more sophisticated and allows input of more variables with regard to the proposed 10 kW PV system. With the use of RETScreen Expert software, the financial viability of the project, the equity payback period, and the reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to the base case were assessed. Based on the gained data, the feasibility and outcome of the study case were assessed in terms of power generation, cost and comparison with the present PV installed capacities in Kosovo. Findings Small-scale solar energy generated from individual buildings can make great impact of country’s policies toward lowering CO2 emission as one most influential greenhouse gas in rising average global temperature, improving air quality in towns by lowering emission of harmful gases and particulate matter (PM). As the study foresees installation of 10 kW of PV in residential houses, the calculated yearly energy generation would be around 15 MWh, which is twice of the average of real consumption of a household in Kosovo. This calculated energy generation from private houses is equal in capacity with generation of present PV parks that are connected on grid as reported from Transmission, System and Market Operator of the Republic of Kosovo. This proves that, if implemented, the study outcome would make Kosovo to meet the goal for a carbon free energy and meeting targets of at least three out of 17 SDG set by UNSC. Originality/value This paper’s model provides a ground for a transition of national energy sector from 90% fossils dependence to renewable energy sources (RES). Despite of some barriers such as cost of initial investment, energy storage, lack of government’s incentives and legislative base for households to become prosumer or at best energy self-sufficient buildings, this solution will make Kosovo harness its unused RES and meet targets of Paris Climate Agreement for net zero CO2 emissions from energy production by 2050 and SDG targets.

ASSESSMENT OF SOLAR PV OUTPUT PERFORMANCE WITH VARYING TILT ANGLES AND WEATHER DATA FROM ERA5: CASE OF MUNTINLUPA CITY, PHILIPPINES

Abstract. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has been gaining popularity in the Philippines as an alternative source of sustainable energy. In such technology, module tilt angle and weather conditions are among the system parameters that have substantial impacts on PV system performance. Previous studies have considered either tilt angles or weather conditions, but not the combined impact of these two parameters on solar PV power output. The objective of this study is to examine the effects of weather variables and tilt angle on the output of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Muntinlupa City, the Philippines. Three 120W monocrystalline solar PV panels were used and set up to three different tilt angles (i.e., 5°, 10°, and 15°). The fifth generation of the ECMWF's global climate and weather reanalysis (ERA5) dataset was used to gather hourly weather information such as surface solar radiation, wind speed, wind direction, relative humidity, ambient temperature, and total precipitation. Three principal components (PC), which together account for 95% of the variability, were identified using principal components analysis (PCA), which was used to address multicollinearity among the weather parameters. To assess the effects of tilt angle, time, and PCs on solar PV production, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was carried out. Results show that all weather variables, except for wind speed and total precipitation, have a significant impact on solar PV production with configuration producing the best results. Moreover, a significant difference in mean solar PV production was observed among the three tilt angles. From 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM, solar PV output gradually increases and declines thereafter. Outputs this study can help in optimizing the design and configuration of solar PV systems in the Philippines by considering weather variables and module tilt angle. Lastly, this study provides useful information for system designers, installers, and policymakers in improving energy generation and utilization, encouraging the use of renewable energy sources, and advancing sustainable energy objectives.

Experimental study on modified GOA-MPPT for PV system under mismatch conditions

This paper presents a modified grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) tailored for optimizing the power extraction capability of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The algorithm`s focus is on addressing one of the issues associated with mismatch loss (MML), particularly the mismatch (MM) in solar irradiance conditions, to attain maximum output power. The core strategy of the GOA involves optimizing the duty cycles of the converter to achieve the maximum power point (MPP) for the PV system. The PV system configuration comprises three PV modules connected in series and a SEPIC converter. To facilitate efficient maximum power point tracking (MPPT), the paper proposes using the GOA as a controlling mechanism. The study employs a comparative approach, contrasting the performance of the proposed system against established algorithms, such as PSO and GWO. The results of these evaluations exhibit the superior performance of the proposed GOA when compared to other optimization techniques. The GOA exhibits exceptional MPPT tracking characteristics, characterized by rapid tracking speed, heightened efficiency, and minimal oscillations within the PV system. Consequently, the GOA effectively addresses one of the MML issues.

A novel power conversion structure for grid-connected photovoltaic applications based on MLI and LeBlanc transformer using IRSA technique

This article proposes a new energy conversion structure by employing a hybrid approach for grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) applications. This structure depends on the LeBlanc transformer and multilevel inverter (MLI). The proposed hybrid system combines the honey badger algorithm (HBA) and the reptile search algorithm (RSA). Crocodiles hunting behavior is enhanced by the HBA technique, also known as the IRSA technique. Voltage source inverters (VSI) are used in the proposed multilevel power converter. The MLI output is attached to the LeBlanc transformer. Multi-string technology is essential to the PV system's configuration. This innovative power converter's structural layout allows for an output voltage at the MLI's output. The proposed IRSA approach is utilized to regulate this power converter. This control system permits a fast and robust response from the MLI. This is also ensured by using the IRSA technique. The performance of the proposed hybrid method is run in MATLAB, and the performance is compared with various existing methods. From the simulation, the proposed approach-based efficiency is higher than the existing one. The proposed method shows a high efficiency of 99% compared with other existing methods, such as the salp swarm algorithm (SSA), bee colony optimization (BCO), and grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA).

Investigation of single and multiple MPPT structures of solar PV-system under partial shading conditions considering direct duty-cycle controller

Partial shading of solar panels diminishes their operating efficiency and energy synthesized as it disrupts the uniform absorption of sunlight. To tackle the issue of partial shading in photovoltaic (PV) systems, this article puts forward a comprehensive control strategy that takes into account a range of contributing factors. The proposed control approach is based on using multi-string PV system configuration in place of a central-type PV inverter for all PV modules with a single DC-DC converter. This adaptation enhances overall efficiency across varying radiation levels. Also, the proposed technique minimizes the overall system cost by reducing the required sensors number by utilizing a radiation estimation strategy. The converter switching strategy is synthesized considering direct duty-cycle control method to establish the maximum power point (MPP) location on the P–V curve. The direct duty-cycle tracking approach simplifies the control system and improves the system’s response during sudden partial shading restrictions. To validate the effectiveness of the suggested MPPT method, two system configurations were constructed using MATLAB/SIMULINK software and assessed under various partial shading scenarios. Additionally, a multi-string system was subjected to real irradiance conditions. The sensor-less MPPT algorithm proposed achieved an impressive system efficiency of 99.81% with a peak-to-peak ripple voltage of 1.3V. This solution offers clear advantages over alternative approaches by reducing tracking time and enhancing system efficiency. The system findings undoubtedly support the theoretical scrutiny of the intended technique.

Comparison of ground-based and floating solar photovoltaic systems performance based on monofacial and bifacial modules in Ghana

This research aims to compare the energy output potential of land-based and floating bifacial photovoltaic (PV) systems of 50 MW and 400 kW with an existing land-based and floating monofacial PV system of the same dimensions and design in Bui, Ghana. The study uses ground weather files and PV system configurations to compare the energy yield from simulations of the different PV systems based on capacity factor, performance ratio, and monthly, final/annual energy yield. The results show that the bifacial gain of land-based and floating bifacial PV systems is 2.51% and 4.57%, respectively, and the capacity factor and performance ratio of the bifacial PV system are higher than the monofacial PV system. However, the additional energy generated by the bifacial PV system is not significant enough to justify the installation of a new system. Therefore, the study recommends optimizing system parameters such as albedo, tilt angle, and ground cover ratio to 0.5, 15°, and 0.3 respectively to enhance the performance and increase the bifacial gain of the PV system. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential of bifacial PV systems in Bui, Ghana, and highlights the importance of optimizing system parameters for maximum energy output.

A Comprehensive Review of Distributed MPPT for Grid-Tied PV Systems at the Sub-Module Level

Energy crises and the growth of the energy demand have increased the interest in utilizing unconventional power sources. Thus, renewable energy sources have become a topic of interest to mitigate rising energy concerns and cope with increased electricity demand. With remarkable merits including cleanness and abundance, photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems are a key to solving these issues. The employed inverters should effectively utilize the maximum available power from the PV solar system and transfer this power to the utility grid without posing any further limitations. However, the unequal power generation of different PV systems caused by partial shading (PS) and other PV panel degradation factors leads to a reduction in generation capacity. One of the relatively new solutions to mitigate the mismatch concerns between the PV modules and sub-modules is to extract the maximum power of each sub-module individually. The main objective of this paper is to present a comprehensive review of such PV grid-connected inverters topologies associated with sub-module connection and control. It will classify the PV grid-tied inverters in accordance with the level where the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) system is implemented. A special focus has been placed on sub-module microinverters (MI) in terms of circuit topologies, conversion efficiency, and controller design. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of employing the distributed MPPT (DMPPT) approach to maximize the power generation of PV systems by mitigating the mismatch issues inside the PV module. The circuit topology, PV system configuration, and MPPT algorithms used for applying DMPPT solutions in PV SMs are discussed in detail in this study.

ANALYSIS OF THE FEATURES OF EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF SOLAR POWER PLANTS IN LOCAL ENERGY SUPPLY SYSTEMS

It is shown that renewable energy sources (RES) are increasingly dominating the electricity market in many countries, while the amount of electricity generation by solar power plants (SPP) has been growing at a record pace in recent years. It is noted that although the share of RES continues to grow and the photovoltaic industry is developing rapidly, the industry still faces many challenges, in particular, how to continue to reduce the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), improve the efficiency of operation and maintenance, and maintain the stability of the power grid, to ensure system security. The effective implementation of solar generation requires an analysis of the prospects for the development of local electric power systems that include SPP, the development of mechanisms and appropriate regulatory, methodological, technical and organizational support that will contribute to the effective development of solar generation, the construction of modern system (schematic) solutions.
 The analysis of the features of the development of green generation in Poland and Ukraine was carried out, the positive factors that influenced the development of renewable energy sources in Ukraine were determined, which made it possible to form the technical, economic and organizational conditions for the successful development of solar generation, in particular, information was provided on new players in developed energy markets according to the Fourth Energy EU package. The analysis showed that when increasing the efficiency of SPP systems, planning and demand management in the electric network, effective functioning of Energy Smart Community (ESC) become important.
 The basic components of the effective functioning of electric power systems with SPP are highlighted, namely: concepts of configurations of photovoltaic systems, Smart-inverters, Energy Storage System (ESS), formation of Virtual Power Plant (VPP) based on SPP. It is shown that each of the four concepts involves the connection of a series of photovoltaic panels or strings and power electronics devices (DC converters and inverters), which are configured taking into account the peculiarities of the functioning of various structural (schematic) solutions. The advantages of using Smart-inverters as a new technology that can help integrate solar energy and other distributed energy resources into the electrical network are evaluated. Smart inverters are used to help the electrical grid cope with intermittent generation, helping the electrical grid remain stable and maintain voltage and frequency requirements.
 It was determined that in any photovoltaic system, the ESS itself becomes a central component that significantly affects the cost, maintenance requirements, reliability and design of the SPP, and the important parameters of the ESS that affect the operation and performance of the photovoltaic system are the battery maintenance requirements, battery life, available power and efficiency. Trends in the market of advanced energy storage systems for SPPs for the next decade are presented. The functioning of virtual power plants based on SPP, as a network of aggregated distributed energy resources that are remotely connected and work together with flexible electricity consumers, is aimed at maximizing the benefits of participants. The possibilities and trends of SPP development in the near future, which are based on the research of Huawei, are presented.

The influence of electricity transaction models on the optimal design of PV and PV-BESS systems

A shift toward more deployment of renewable energy resources has been noticed in the residential sector. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, supported by battery energy storage systems (BESS), are considered the most used renewable energy resource at urban scales as they utilize the buildings’ roof and facades to install PV panels. In order to better match the PV electricity solar production pattern with buildings’ demand pattern, multi-objective optimization is used in existing studies. This is extremely important in the residential sector as the time of peak solar production does not coincide with the peak demand occurring in the evening. To this end, this study employs a two-phase optimization framework to explore the influence of the different electricity transaction models on the optimal design of PV and PV-BESS systems when performing the optimization process. A residential neighborhood in downtown Los Angeles, California, is used as a case study to find the optimal system in terms of maximum self-consumption (SC) and self-sufficiency (SS) and minimum payback period (BP) and the load variance over the grid. The results indicate that selling surplus electricity to the grid at Time of Use (TOU) rates used in California influences the optimal configuration of PV and PV-BESS systems. Selling surplus electricity results in more PV panels on the south-west orientations and less on the south-east orientations compared to the scenarios that do not consider trading with the grid. Selling surplus production also impacts the optimal number of batteries needed in PV-BESS systems when the decision maker prefers the payback period objective. In some cases, acheiving higher SS is possible using batteries. However, this may lead to unexpected pressure over the grid. This is due to a huge surplus exported to the grid within a short period of time when batteries are fully charged. The results show that using batteries lowers the load variance over the grid in general and achieves the highest percentage of SS. The scenarios in which there are no batteries added to the system and selling surplus PV production is allowed over the grid achieved the least PB. The scenarios in which the batteries are used and the selling of surplus PV is not allowed, achieved the highest percentage of SC.

Five parameters extraction of single diode PV model by metaheuristic optimization method by identified built-up data

Precision calculation of unknown photovoltaic (PV) modules or single diode models for PV cell specifications under various environmental conditions is needed to build a sunlight-based PV framework. Installing a PV system requires knowledge of all parameters, modeling, and optimization techniques because PV system analysis and configuration help generate renewable energy. This concept requires accurate modeling and calculation of identified and unknown parameters. The single-diode model is simple and accurate for different mathematical equations. Streamlining calculations requires distinguishing this nonlinear model. The current investigation calculated five unknown parameters and compared them with particle swarm optimization (PSO) and wind-driven optimization (WDO) optimization results. The said approach utilizes MATLAB software, analytical as well as optimization methods, and manufacturing data. The suggested method is simple, fast, and accurate for calculating diode ideality factor (A), output currents (Io), series resistance (Rs), Shunt resistance (Rsh), and photocurrent (Iph).

Review of Potential‐Induced Degradation in Bifacial Photovoltaic Modules

Bifacial modules are increasingly deployed in the field and are expected to represent half of the market share within 10 years. Their rear structure differs from monofacial modules to allow additional light absorption. However, it brings new reliability challenges to address. In particular, the risk of potential‐induced degradation (PID) is increased as both module sides are impacted. Different PID processes have been identified in the literature: shunting type (PID‐s), polarization type (PID‐p), Na penetration type, and corrosion type (PID‐c). Their occurrence depends on the photovoltaic system configuration as well as the module's materials. Apart from PID‐s, PID processes are not well understood and extensive research is needed to elucidate the PID scenario and underlying mechanisms. Herein, current knowledge about PID processes and their impact on the main bifacial modules in the market are gathered with the aim to guide future research. Bifacial module technologies and leakage current paths leading to PID are described. Indoor and outdoor PID testing methods are detailed. For each bifacial module technology, the PID processes are investigated with their indicators, mechanism and recovery process. PID‐impacting factors and limitation solutions are finally reported and a state of the art on PID modeling is presented.

Decentral Production of Green Hydrogen for Energy Systems: An Economically and Environmentally Viable Solution for Surplus Self-Generated Energy in Manufacturing Companies?

Power-to-X processes where renewable energy is converted into storable liquids or gases are considered to be one of the key approaches for decarbonizing energy systems and compensating for the volatility involved in generating electricity from renewable sources. In this context, the production of “green” hydrogen and hydrogen-based derivatives is being discussed and tested as a possible solution for the energy-intensive industry sector in particular. Given the sharp, ongoing increases in electricity and gas prices and the need for sustainable energy supplies in production systems, non-energy-intensive companies should also be taken into account when considering possible utilization paths for hydrogen. This work focuses on the following three utilization paths: “hydrogen as an energy storage system that can be reconverted into electricity”, “hydrogen mobility” for company vehicles and “direct hydrogen use”. These three paths are developed, modeled, simulated, and subsequently evaluated in terms of economic and environmental viability. Different photovoltaic system configurations are set up for the tests with nominal power ratings ranging from 300 kWp to 1000 kWp. Each system is assigned an electrolyzer with a power output ranging between 200 kW and 700 kW and a fuel cell with a power output ranging between 5 kW and 75 kW. There are also additional variations in relation to the battery storage systems within these basic configurations. Furthermore, a reference variant without battery storage and hydrogen technologies is simulated for each photovoltaic system size. This means that there are ultimately 16 variants to be simulated for each utilization path. The results show that these utilization paths already constitute a reasonable alternative to fossil fuels in terms of costs in variants with a suitable energy system design. For the “hydrogen as an energy storage system” path, electricity production costs of between 43 and 79 ct/kWh can be achieved with the 750 kWp photovoltaic system. The “hydrogen mobility” is associated with costs of 12 to 15 ct/km, while the “direct hydrogen use” path resulted in costs of 8.2 €/kg. Environmental benefits are achieved in all three paths by replacing the German electricity mix with renewable energy sources produced on site or by substituting hydrogen for fossil fuels. The results confirm that using hydrogen as a storage medium in manufacturing companies could be economically and environmentally viable. These results also form the basis for further studies, e.g., on detailed operating strategies for hydrogen technologies in scenarios involving a combination of multiple utilization paths. The work also presents the simulation-based method developed in this project, which can be transferred to comparable applications in further studies.

On-Grid PV Performance in Various Irradiation Conditions, Types, and Load Power

There are several types of photovoltaic system configurations, one of which is the on-grid PV system. This system is simple compared to other systems. Because there are two different energy sources that can supply the load either together or separately, an analysis of how the irradiation affects the electrical parameters on the load side or the grid itself is required. The goal of this research is to examine the performance of on-grid PV under various irradiation variation, type, and load power to power factor, grid frequency, and load conditions. To measure the performance of on-grid PV, parameter calculations are carried out in the form of PV efficiency, final yield, reference yield, and performance ratio, and the results of measurements of power factor, grid frequency, and load are observed due to variations in irradiation, type, and load power. The results show that the performance of on-grid PV is good; low irradiation can result in a decrease in the grid power factor, while the grid and load frequencies are in normal conditions for various variations of irradiation, type, and load power.

Overview of Solar Photovoltaic Applications for District Heating and Cooling

Abstract With the prevalent energy crisis and climate changes, decarbonising energy sector has become the need of the hour. An environmentally friendly way is the utilisation of solar energy which mainly involves the deployment of photovoltaic (PV) and/or solar thermal technology. Unlike electricity generation, the application of photovoltaics for the district heating & cooling (DHC) is relatively new. Also, this energy route is yet to be fully explored. This paper aims to provide an overview of the photovoltaic applications in the context of DHC sector. At first, the utilisation of solar energy in the DHC sector is briefly described and then the review of the available literature is carried out. It was understood that PV integration in the district heating and/or district cooling system can take place in different topologies such as PV technology, energy storage, and system configuration (centralized/distributed). On one side, this technology options support design flexibility based on local scenarios (i.e., climatic conditions, building types, energy cost). On the other side, selecting the best configuration remains a challenging task for design and planning engineers. The research database on the studied topic needs to be enhanced, with a focus on PV’s role in district cooling (DC). It is deduced that right technical and economic boundary conditions in the chosen region is important for the accelerated photovoltaic integration. Also, lower environmental impact throughout the whole life cycle of solar PV integrated DHC system is reported. PV assisted DC systems have the potential to revolutionize cooling sector, especially in the places where daytime electricity costs are high. Based on the SWOT analysis, it is concluded that there is an enormous opportunity for PV integration in the DHC sector with the upgradations in DH networks, developing DC networks and rising adoption of HPs. This overview is expected to be beneficial to researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders of district energy sector.

Techno-economic feasibility analysis of grid-connected residential PV systems in Algeria

Small-scale photovoltaic (PV) power systems have been proven to be successful in generating electricity, conserving fossil fuels, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the residential sector, which is one of the largest consumers of energy. In Algeria, to reduce energy consumption in this sector, the authorities are considering implementing a policy that would encourage grid-connected residential PV systems. This paper presents a techno-economic assessment of grid-connected residential PV systems in four climate zones in Algeria. This work was performed using HOMER software for two different PV system configurations, grid/PV and grid/PV/battery. The technical performances of the considered systems were evaluated through the assessment of the self-consumption and self-sufficiency, while the net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), profitability index (PI), and discounted payback period (DPBP) were used to determine their feasibility. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to evaluate the effects of feed-in tariff (FiT), battery costs, and PV array capacity on the profitability of the systems. The results revealed that the grid/PV systems are technically and economically feasible in all of the four climate zones. For the grid/PV/battery systems, the grant of battery costs and the development of a regional FiT system are recommended. This article provides a tool for policymakers to assess the technical and financial performance of residential solar PV systems to develop adequate policy supports and tariff structures for Algeria.

Technical and Economical Evaluation of Micro-Solar PV/Diesel Hybrid Generation System for Small Demand

This paper is intended as an investigation on a reliability of solar PV(Photovoltaic) and DG (Diesel Generator) hybrid system and the economical evaluation. In the remote area or island countries, diesel generator is a common technology for supplying power. In general, the price of diesel oil is expensive in remote areas. Therefore, introduction of the technologies which can reduce the fuel consumption for power generation is important in those area. Interconnection of solar PV with isolated diesel distribution lines is one of the options when expanding power generation facilities. However, the output of solar PV is influenced by the weather condition, it is difficult to ensure a constant output and control power amount. Using unstable input for power generation such as solar PV increases the risk of power outage due to instability of system voltage and frequency fluctuations. In this study, experiments were conducted to clarify the unstable condition using the micro-solar diesel hybrid system using solar PV (2kW), Battery Bank (24V,420Ah) and Diesel Generator (4.7kVA) and load(1500W) at Ashikaga University (AU). The experiments are conducted by two different setups, a hybrid system of solar PV and DG and the hybrid with battery bank. The results of the experiments show the frequency fluctuations becomes smaller by the hybrid system with battery bank. And the mechanical governor which attached to the DG has important function to stabilize frequency fluctuation. In the study, economic viability of the solar PV and DG hybrid system is examined by computing the Internal Rate of Return (IRR). In the calculation of the least-cost alternative system, a diesel engine powered generation system with the capacity to generate the same amount of electricity as the solar PV-DG hybrid system was used. The IRRs of the solar PV – diesel hybrid system is positive in all configuration. IRR becomes larger in the hybrid system without a battery bank and also it becomes larger with increase of the penetration ratio of solar PV. The configuration of solar PV and DG hybrid system have to be considered by the type of power demand. If the demand user requires quality power such as stabilized voltage and frequency in minimum range, battery bank have to be installed to the system. If the economical operation by saving the amount of fuel consumption is more important, battery bank does not need to be included. The system is feasible on the both aspect of technical and economical, therefore it can be introduced as reliable energy supply system for small power demand in remote areas.

Techno-economic analysis for optimal configurations of PV systems with back reflectors

With the growth in the solar photovoltaic (PV) market, there is a renewed interest in increasing the system’s annual produced energy. Most of the proposed solutions in the literature require special additional equipment, which might adversely affect the cost of the produced energy. This paper proposes an integrated PV-reflector system that augments the solar irradiance on already installed PV modules. A new mathematical model has been developed in MATLAB R2020a to simulate and techno-economically assess the proposed integrated PV system during the entire year using real meteorological data. A genetic algorithm has been employed in MATLAB R2020a to obtain the optimal geometric and optical parameters that maximize the annual produced energy and minimize the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) at two selected locations (Cairo in Egypt and Ma’an in Jordan) and for three module technologies (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film) and different commercial reflectors. The optimal system configurations increased the annual energy production by up to 6.05, 5.14, and 8.34% for the three PV technologies, respectively. For both locations, the optimal tilt angles of the PV module and reflector range between 24° and 34° for Cairo, and between 19° and 36° for Ma’an, depending on the PV technology. Finally, all the system configurations have favorable and low payback periods (∼3 and 6.5 years for Ma’an and Cairo, respectively), as well as attractive LCOE, which varies between 0.0369 and 0.044 USD/kWh in Ma’an and between 0.0543 and 0.065 USD/kWh in Cairo.