Project Report
Project Report
System Overview:
The PV array system consisted of a 100 kW capacity, which was connected to a battery storage
system for energy storage. An MPPT algorithm was implemented to optimize the power output of
the PV array, while an inverter was used to convert DC power from the PV array to AC power for
the load. The system was also connected to an infinite bus with a transmission line to simulate the
connection to the utility grid.
Methodology:
1. Irradiance Levels:
The simulation considered varying levels of solar irradiance to analyze the performance of the PV
array system under different conditions. Irradiance levels were modeled based on real-world data
or predefinedscenarios to simulate the changes in solar intensity throughout the day.
2. PV Array Characteristics:
The PV array used in the simulation had a capacity of 100 kW. It was modeled based on its
electrical characteristics, including the voltage-current (V-I) curve, maximum power point voltage
and current, and temperature coefficient. The V-I curve represents the relationship between the
voltage and current output of the PV array under different operating conditions.
The battery storage system was included to store excess energy generated by the PV array during
periods of high solar irradiance and supply power during periods of low or no solar irradiance. The
characteristics of the battery system, such as capacity, voltage, and efficiency, were incorporated
into the simulation. The state of charge (SOC) of the battery was tracked to determine its energy
storage and discharge levels.
The MPPT algorithm was implemented to maximize the power output of the PV array by tracking
and adjusting the operating point of the PV array to the maximum power point (MPP). Various
MPPT algorithms such as Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance, or Fractional
Open Circuit Voltage (FOCV) were used to ensure the PV array operates at its maximum efficiency.
The chosen algorithm was integrated into the simulation to continuously track the MPP.
5. Inverter:
The inverter was used to convert the DC power generated by the PV array into AC power suitable
for the load and the grid connection. The inverter's characteristics, such as efficiency, voltage
conversion ratio, and control strategies, were considered in the simulation. The AC power output
of the inverter was synchronized with the grid frequency and voltage for seamless integration.
6. Infinite Bus with Transmission Line Model:
The infinite bus with transmission line model simulated the connection of the PV array system to
the utility grid. The model accounted for the impedance and losses in the transmission line to
analyze the power flow and stability of the system. The infinite bus served as a reference for the
system's voltage and frequency.
The simulation results provide valuable insights into the performance of the PV array system
under different conditions. The following analysis highlights the impact of variations in irradiance
levels, battery state of charge (SOC), MPPT performance, and load demand on the system's power
output, efficiency, and stability.
As irradiance levels decrease, the MPPT algorithm adjusts the operating point of the PV array to
track the maximum power point (MPP) and maintain the highest possible power output. However,
under low irradiance conditions, the power output may be significantly reduced, affecting the
overall system performance.
Impact of Battery State of Charge (SOC):
The battery storage system plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable power supply in the PV array
system. The SOC of the battery influences the energy storage and discharge capability, impacting
the system's ability to meet load demand during periods of low solar irradiance.
The simulation results indicate that a higher SOC allows the battery to store more excess energy
generated by the PV array, which can be utilized during peak load periods or when solar irradiance
is insufficient. Conversely, a low SOC limits the battery's discharge capacity, leading to a higher
reliance on the PV array or grid power. Figure illustrates the relationship between SOC and the
system's power availability.
It is important to optimize the battery charging and discharging strategy to maintain an adequate
SOC, balancing energy storage and discharge requirements with the PV array's power generation
capabilities.
Impact of MPPT Performance:
The performance of the MPPT algorithm directly affects the power output and efficiency of the PV
array system. The simulation allows for the evaluation of different MPPT algorithms and their
impact on the system's performance.
Comparative analysis of various MPPT algorithms reveals differences in their tracking efficiency,
response time, and accuracy in reaching the MPP. The chosen MPPT algorithm should strike a
balance between accurate tracking and system response time to maximize power output and
minimize power losses. Figure 3 demonstrates the power output comparison of two MPPT
algorithms.
Conclusion
Analyzing the simulation results, it is evident that a higher load demand reduces the surplus
energy available for battery storage or grid supply, potentially leading to grid
dependency.Optimizing load management strategies and ensuring a proper balance between
power supply and demand are crucial to maintaining system stability and minimizing grid
reliance.In summary, the simulation results demonstrate the system's sensitivity to variations in
irradiance levels, battery SOC, MPPT performance, and load demand. These factors significantly
impact the power output, efficiency, and stability of the PV array system. By carefully analyzing
and understanding these relationships, appropriate control strategies, operational adjustments,
and system design enhancements can be implemented to improve overall system performance
and optimize energy utilization.
Recommendations:
Based on the simulation results and analysis, it is clear that optimizing load management
strategies and maintaining a proper balance between power supply and demand are critical to
ensuring the stability and reliability of the PV array system. To achieve this, the following
recommendations are proposed:
Load Management Optimization: Implement intelligent load management techniques that can
dynamically adjust energy consumption based on available energy supply and battery state of
charge (SOC). Load shedding or shifting algorithms can be employed to prioritize critical loads
during periods of low energy generation and ensure the efficient use of stored energy.
Energy Storage Capacity Expansion: To reduce grid dependency and increase energy self-
sufficiency, consider expanding the battery storage capacity. This will enable the system to store
excess energy during periods of high irradiance and supply it during peak demand, thereby
improving system resilience and reducing the reliance on the grid.
MPPT Algorithm Improvement: Investigate and fine-tune the Maximum Power Point Tracking
(MPPT) algorithm to enhance the PV array's energy capture efficiency. Advanced MPPT algorithms
can help extract maximum power from the solar panels, especially under varying irradiance
conditions, leading to improved system performance.
Real-time Monitoring and Control: Implement a robust monitoring and control system that
continuously tracks the system parameters, such as irradiance levels, battery SOC, and load
demand. Real-time data can enable timely decision-making, allowing the system to adapt quickly
to changing conditions and enhance overall efficiency.
Grid Interaction Protocol: Develop a grid interaction protocol to ensure seamless integration with
the power grid. This protocol should include measures for frequency regulation, voltage control,
and grid synchronization to support stable and reliable power supply to the grid during both
surplus and deficit scenarios.
References:
Here are some references that can be used to support and strengthen the project report:
J. A. Gow and C. D. Manning, "Development of a photovoltaic array model for use in power-electronics
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A. Mellit, S. A. Kalogirou, and M. Shaari, "A 15-year global trend of photovoltaic research and development
using the Scopus database," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 22, pp. 1-13, Feb 2013.
M. S. Sujit and R. S. Amanulla, "Performance improvement of a solar PV system using a modified perturb
and observe algorithm for MPPT control," International Journal of Sustainable Energy, vol. 39, no. 4, pp.
325-338, Apr 2020.
L. S. Al-Ghussain and S. A. Kalogirou, "Advanced maximum power point tracking methods for photovoltaic
systems: A comprehensive review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 64, pp. 779-792, Jun
2016.
M. A. Green, K. Emery, Y. Hishikawa, W. Warta, and E. D. Dunlop, "Solar cell efficiency tables (version 58),"
Progress in Photovoltaics: Research and Applications, vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 3-15, Jan 2021.