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Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems
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Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A2: Solar Energy and Photovoltaic Systems".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2022) | Viewed by 34664

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Laurentiu Fara

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Physics Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Polytechnic University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
2. Department (Section) of Physical Sciences, Academy of Romanian Scientists (Academy of Sciences), Bucharest, Romania
Interests: solar cells modelling and simulation; PV systems modelling and simulation; forecasting of solar radiation; BIPV systems; applications of PV systems
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. James Connolly

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
CentraleSupélec, GeePs (Group of electrical engineering - Paris), 3 & 11 rue Joliot-Curie, Plateau de Moulon, 91192 Gif-sur-Yvette, CEDEX, France
Interests: materials; photovoltaics; experimental physics; software development; device modelling
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Guest Editor is inviting submissions for a Special Issue of Energies on the subject area of “Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems”.
The increased demand in the power supply has imposed a stress on the preoccupations regarding the quality of electricity, determining that energy production has to be reliable and stable. The aspects regarding the quality of electricity, based on renewable energy, are not yet favorable to large power systems, raising compatibility issues with the electricity grid. The production of conventional electricity, based on fossil fuels, has managed to maintain a balance between the produced energy and its quality, so far; however, this conventional approach is expected to be eliminated in the near future, both for environmental reasons and due to depletion of resources, determined by oil and natural gas. This has redirected a wealth of studies and research to renewable energy. At the same time, there is a growing awareness of the importance of a clean environment, with major concerns related to global warming and environmental pollution, which have given an additional impetus to new technologies for electricity generation. Thus, it has been possible to move to the exploitation of renewable energy on a larger scale; in particular, the installed capacity of photovoltaic (PV) systems has increased. However, the quality of electricity produced by the photovoltaic sector varies in both annual and daily cycles (day–night), depending very much on specific meteorological parameters such as solar irradiance, temperature, and humidity, respectively on spontaneous factors such as clouds, nebulosity, aerosol content, etc. As these issues contribute negatively to the development of PV systems, the field is open to research, with many unsolved issues.
There are concerns regarding increasing the conversion efficiency of solar cells, their numerical modeling and simulation being a priority direction. At the same time, different methods are being considered to improve the electrical efficiency of PV systems, using various techniques and tools, such as maximum power point tracking (MPPT), the implementation of fuzzy logic controller (FLC) algorithms, and the development of intelligent systems for tracking the optimal point of solar energy capture and conversion (tracking system). In the future, the gradual reduction of costs for PV modules and increasing the conversion efficiency of solar energy into electricity will accelerate the process of developing new capacities of PV systems. At the same time, established specific standards have been in the photovoltaic field, namely, Q3 (quality and reliability standards for BOS), Q4 (quality and reliability standards for PV generators), UL1741 (quality and safety standards for inverters, converters, and controllers used in PV applications), T1 and C2 (compatibility/interface standards for PV distributed systems), T2 and C3 (compatibility/interface standards for smart grid), and others.
A very good policy in the standardization of PV components and systems, together with their operational optimization based on numerical modeling, would allow the development of performant elements to be used in the photovoltaic sector.
The focus on PV systems as a renewable energy option represents an innovative technological and mitigation strategy. If future projections hold, renewables will account for over 50% of CO2 emission reduction by 2050. They also contribute to economic development via an increase in gross domestic product, energy access, secure energy supply, and the reduction of negative impacts on the environment and health.
Hence, this Special Issue looks for participation of international experts dedicated to “Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems” using strong scientific and multidisciplinary knowledge. We call for contributions from different disciplines on original/innovative approaches based on performant simulation tools, as well as review articles, applicable to analysis and numerical modeling in solar photovoltaic systems.

The main aspects associated with analysis and numerical modelling will be dedicated to:

  • advanced solar cells;
  • PV systems;
  • PV modules;
  • Advanced electrical batteries;
  • Power electron converters;
  • The MPPT method and FLC algorithm;
  • Impact on centralized generation.

Topics of interest for publication include but are not limited to:

  • Numerical modeling of advanced solar cells;
  • Numerical analysis and modeling of PV modules;
  • Numerical modeling of PV standalone and grid-connected systems;
  • Numerical modeling of power electron converters, including MPPT and FLC tools;
  • Numerical modeling of advanced batteries;
  • Numerical modeling of hybrid PV/thermal(PV/T) systems;
  • Numerical simulation and analysis of the impact of PV systems on centralized generation.

Prof. Laurentiu Fara
Dr. James Connolly
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Advanced solar cell, PV module, BOS, controller, inverter, electrical battery
  • Maximum power point tracking (MPPT)
  • Fuzzy logic controller (FLC)
  • Machine learning modeling
  • Autonomous (standalone) PV system
  • Grid-connected PV system
  • BIPV system
  • photovoltaic park
  • PV applications (PV pumping, PV lighting, etc.)
  • Hybrid system
  • PV performance
  • RAMS
  • PV complex system

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (16 papers)

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24 pages, 8557 KiB  
Article
Emerging Parameters Extraction Method of PV Modules Based on the Survival Strategies of Flying Foxes Optimization (FFO)
by Radouane Aalloul, Abdellah Elaissaoui, Mourad Benlattar and Rhma Adhiri
Energies 2023, 16(8), 3531; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16083531 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1482
Abstract
Nowadays, the world is encountering multiple challenges of energy security, economic recovery, and the effect of global warming. Investing in new fossil fuels only locks in uneconomic practices, sustains existing risks and increases the threats of climate change. In contrast, renewable energies, such [...] Read more.
Nowadays, the world is encountering multiple challenges of energy security, economic recovery, and the effect of global warming. Investing in new fossil fuels only locks in uneconomic practices, sustains existing risks and increases the threats of climate change. In contrast, renewable energies, such as photovoltaic energy, constitute one of the most promising technologies in combating global increase in temperatures. Given its simplicity and low maintenance costs, photovoltaic energy is the most effective alternative to address the issues above. However, the standard test conditions (STCs) of PV modules are, in most cases, different from the real working conditions of a solar module. For instance, high levels of incident irradiation in an arid climate may cause the temperature of a module to rise by many degrees above the STC temperature of 25 °C, lowering the module’s performance. To effectively simulate and control PV systems for a given location, it has become paramount to develop a robust and accurate model that considers how PV modules behave. This study seeks to introduce an emerging metaheuristic optimization algorithm to estimate the unknown parameters of PV modules. The strategies deployed by flying foxes in the event of high temperatures have given birth to the development of a new metaheuristic algorithm called FFO. Contrary to previous methods, this new modeling procedure makes it possible to calculate all the parameters, regardless of temperature or irradiance. Four PV modules, having different technologies, were tested to evaluate the accuracy of the algorithm in question. The effectiveness of FFO is then contrasted with other well-known metaheuristics where single and double diode models are deployed. The results show that the FFO optimizer represents a substantial and compelling substitute for PV module extraction methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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21 pages, 9444 KiB  
Article
Efficiency Assessment of Five Types of Photovoltaic Modules Installed on a Fixed and on a Dual-Axis Solar-Tracked Platform
by Macedon Moldovan, Bogdan Gabriel Burduhos and Ion Visa
Energies 2023, 16(3), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031229 - 23 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1159
Abstract
A solution to increase the electrical output of the photovoltaic systems relies on solar tracking mechanisms that increase the amount of received solar energy. The experimental results obtained during a monitoring period of one year are comparatively presented in the paper for five [...] Read more.
A solution to increase the electrical output of the photovoltaic systems relies on solar tracking mechanisms that increase the amount of received solar energy. The experimental results obtained during a monitoring period of one year are comparatively presented in the paper for five types of photovoltaic modules installed on a fixed platform (as reference) and on a dual-axis solar tracking platform in the Renewable Energy Systems and Recycling R&D Centre of the Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania. The influence of the solar-tracking mechanism and the meteorological conditions specific to the four seasons during the monitoring period on the output of the analysed photovoltaic technologies are discussed in the paper. The solar tracking increases by 28% the amount of the yearly received solar energy and by 29.6% the electrical energy output of the entire PV platform. The solar conversion efficiency of the tracked PV platform is slightly increased (14.34%) when compared with the fixed one (14.17%). When assessing the influence of solar tracking on each type of PV, the results show that the CIGS PV module has the highest relative energy gain (34%) followed by CIS (30.8%), m-Si (30.6%), p-Si (27.3%) and CdTe (23.4%) PV modules. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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28 pages, 7938 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Partial Shading Effect of Photovoltaic Panels and Optimization of Their Performance Based on High-Efficiency FLC Algorithm
by Dan Craciunescu and Laurentiu Fara
Energies 2023, 16(3), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031169 - 20 Jan 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2979
Abstract
The present work proposes an enhanced method of investigation and optimization photovoltaic (PV) modules by approaching and using MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technique to improve their output power. The performance of the PV panels is strongly influenced by the operating conditions, especially [...] Read more.
The present work proposes an enhanced method of investigation and optimization photovoltaic (PV) modules by approaching and using MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) technique to improve their output power. The performance of the PV panels is strongly influenced by the operating conditions, especially regarding the solar irradiance, temperature, configuration, and the shading (due to a passing cloud or neighboring buildings); all these cause, both on energy conversion loss, and further on non-linearity of the I-V characteristics. From this reason, the present study could have a high relevance based on the improvement of the performances (including the efficiency) of the shaded photovoltaic panels and would quantify the impact of a complex approach represented by numerical modeling and experimental validation. For a better understanding of these issues determined by partial shading, and improvement of MPP tracking, it is required to study the behavior of individual panels. For the best accuracy of the implemented models a comparative analysis and optimized method of the PV modules was considered based on: (1) the influence of temperature and solar irradiance and behavior of the PV modules in partial shading conditions; (2) a comparison between the optimized output power of four algorithms (FLC—Fuzzy Logic Controller, P&O—Perturb and Observe, IncCond—Incremental Conductance and RC Ripple Correlation) and the selection of the best one (FLC); (3) discussion of customized/improved fuzzy logic controller (FLC) algorithm on five operation points introduced in order to increase PV module efficiency under fluctuating weather conditions and rapidly changing uncertainties. Furthermore, the FLC provides a set of rules useful for predicting the current-voltage behavior and the maximum power points of shaded photovoltaic modules. This FLC algorithm was implemented in a specialized software, namely MATLAB/Simulink. The authors highlighted the development and implementation of a numerical simulation model for an advanced PV module to determine its behavior under different operating conditions and improve its performance. The essence of the authors’ research and the motivation of this work is described. The authors were able to stabilize and improve the output performance of the PV module. The results concerning the shading effect as well as the shading patterns were developed, demonstrated, and experimentally validated. These results could be applied for the actual photovoltaic installations, respectively complex stand-alone or grid-connected photovoltaic systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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14 pages, 4191 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Seasonal Cloud Cover, Ambient Temperature and Seasonal Variations in Daylight Hours on the Optimal PV Panel Tilt Angle in the United States
by Essa Alhamer, Addison Grigsby and Rydge Mulford
Energies 2022, 15(20), 7516; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15207516 - 12 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1404
Abstract
A variety of variables influence the optimal tilt angle of a PV panel, including the characteristics of the panel, the local seasonal weather variations, the number of daylight hours the panel is exposed to and the ambient temperature of the surroundings. In this [...] Read more.
A variety of variables influence the optimal tilt angle of a PV panel, including the characteristics of the panel, the local seasonal weather variations, the number of daylight hours the panel is exposed to and the ambient temperature of the surroundings. In this study, the optimal PV tilt angle and maximum energy output of PV arrays was calculated for every county in the United States and compared against the practice of setting the PV tilt angle to be equivalent to the latitude angle of the PV geographic location. A PVWatts API, implemented through Python, was used in conjunction with the SciPy optimization package to find the optimal tilt angle for each county using a direct line search algorithm. Most counties (95.8%) showed a difference between the location latitude and the optimal tilt of more than one degree. Many counties showed a deviation of 2–6° lower than the location latitude. The variation of daylight hours had the largest influence on tilt angle and seasonal cloud cover and ambient temperature had varying levels of influence. Generally, winter cloud cover decreased the optimal tilt angle whereas high summer temperatures increased the tilt angle. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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22 pages, 2121 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Energy Management for Perpetual Operation of Energy Harvesting Wireless Sensor Node Using Fuzzy Q-Learning
by Roy Chaoming Hsu, Tzu-Hao Lin and Po-Cheng Su
Energies 2022, 15(9), 3117; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15093117 - 24 Apr 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1250
Abstract
In an energy harvesting wireless sensor node (EHWSN), balance of energy harvested and consumption using dynamic energy management to achieve the goal of perpetual operation is one of the most important research topics. In this study, a novel fuzzy Q-learning (FQL)-based dynamic energy [...] Read more.
In an energy harvesting wireless sensor node (EHWSN), balance of energy harvested and consumption using dynamic energy management to achieve the goal of perpetual operation is one of the most important research topics. In this study, a novel fuzzy Q-learning (FQL)-based dynamic energy management (FQLDEM) is proposed in adapting its policy to the time varying environment, regarding both the harvested energy and the energy consumption of the WSN. The FQLDEM applies Q-learning to train, evaluate, and update the fuzzy rule base and then uses the fuzzy inference system (FIS) for determining the working duty cycle of the sensor of the EHWSN. Through the interaction with the energy harvesting environment, the learning agent of the FQL will be able to find the appropriate fuzzy rules in adapting the working duty cycle for the goal of energy neutrality such that the objective of perpetual operation of the EHWSN can be achieved. Experimental results show that the FQLDEM can maintain the battery charge status at a higher level than other existing methods did, such as the reinforcement learning (RL) method and dynamic duty cycle adaption (DDCA), and achieve the perpetual operation of the EHWSN. Furthermore, experimental results for required on-demand sensing measurements exhibit that the FQLDEM method can be slowly upgraded to meet 65% of the service quality control requirements in the early stage, which outperforms the RL-based and DDCA methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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22 pages, 13697 KiB  
Article
Raspberry Pi Design and Hardware Implementation of Fuzzy-PI Controller for Three-Phase Grid-Connected Inverter
by Sameh Mostafa, Abdelhalim Zekry, Ayman Youssef and Wagdi Refaat Anis
Energies 2022, 15(3), 843; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15030843 - 24 Jan 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3575
Abstract
A photovoltaic system is one of the major sources of renewable energy. The grid-connected inverter controllers play an important role in the conversion and transmission of solar energy. Therefore, they must be improved to meet the demands for grid interconnection. This article introduces [...] Read more.
A photovoltaic system is one of the major sources of renewable energy. The grid-connected inverter controllers play an important role in the conversion and transmission of solar energy. Therefore, they must be improved to meet the demands for grid interconnection. This article introduces the design and hardware implementation of the intelligent fuzzy-PI controller of the inverter part of the grid-connected photovoltaic system. First, the paper discusses the design of the three-phase grid-connected fuzzy-PI controller. Next, the paper describes the implementation of a Matlab graphical user interface (GUI) to design any grid-connected inverter and size the photovoltaic systems. The code generation of the fuzzy-PI controller of the system is accomplished by using Matlab Simulink simulation software. The hardware components of the PV system are implemented experimentally. In the hardware implementation, a 70 W prototype is realized to test the functionality of the controller, such that one can develop a realistic controller without taking risks or falling into security concerns in the case of performing experiments on high-power systems. The prototype proves that the controller model can be directly transformed from Simulink to the control device. It also shows that the fuzzy-PI controller is working properly in the 70-watt prototype. The achieved performance parameters of the proposed fuzzy-PI controller are satisfactory. The proposed method to design and implement the fuzzy-PI controller does not require complicated programming, where a Matlab coder is proposed to transform the Simulink controller into C code that can be directly utilized as a software control program loaded in the microcontrollers embedded in the hardware of the controller. The main result is that the fuzzy-PI controller for the three-phase grid-connected systems can be implemented using low-cost reconfigurable microcontrollers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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15 pages, 783 KiB  
Article
Benefits of Low Electron-Affinity Material as the N-Type Layer for Cu(In,Ga)S2 Solar Cell
by Dwinanri Egyna, Kazuyoshi Nakada and Akira Yamada
Energies 2022, 15(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010004 - 21 Dec 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2133
Abstract
Despite the potential in single- and multi-junction solar cells application, research into the wide band gap CuIn1−xGax(Se1−ySy)2 or CIG(SSe)2 solar cell material, with Eg≥1.5eV [...] Read more.
Despite the potential in single- and multi-junction solar cells application, research into the wide band gap CuIn1−xGax(Se1−ySy)2 or CIG(SSe)2 solar cell material, with Eg≥1.5eV, has yet to be extensively performed to date. In this work, we conducted a numerical study into the role of the n-type layers in CIG(SSe)2 heterojunction solar cells, specifically concerning the maximum open-circuit voltage of the devices. In the first part of the study, we derived a new ideal open-circuit voltage equation for a thin-film heterojunction solar cell by taking into account the current contribution from the depletion region. The accuracy of the new equation was validated through a simulation model in the second part of the study. Another simulation model was also used to clarify the design rules of the n-type layer in a wide band gap CIG(SSe)2 solar cell. Our work stressed the importance of a positive conduction band offset on the n-/p-type interface, through the use of a low electron affinity n-type material for a solar cell with a high open-circuit voltage. Through a precise selection of the window layer material, a buffer-free CIG(SSe)2 design is sufficient to fulfill such conditions. We also proposed the specific roles of the n-type layer, i.e., as a passivation layer and selective electron contact, in the operation of CIGS2 solar cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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11 pages, 1910 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Reconfigurable Photovoltaic System
by Ekaterina Engel, Igor Kovalev, Nikolay Testoyedov and Nikita E. Engel
Energies 2021, 14(23), 7969; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14237969 - 29 Nov 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1322
Abstract
The global maximum power point tracking of a PV array under partial shading represents a global optimization problem. Conventional maximum power point tracking algorithms fail to track the global maximum power point, and global optimization algorithms do not provide global maximum power point [...] Read more.
The global maximum power point tracking of a PV array under partial shading represents a global optimization problem. Conventional maximum power point tracking algorithms fail to track the global maximum power point, and global optimization algorithms do not provide global maximum power point in real-time mode due to a slow convergence process. This paper presents an intelligent reconfigurable photovoltaic system on the basis of a modified fuzzy neural net that includes a convolutional block, recurrent networks, and fuzzy units. We tune the modified fuzzy neural net based on modified multi-dimension particle swarm optimization. Based on the processing of the sensors’ signals and the photovoltaic array’s image, the tuned modified fuzzy neural net generates an electrical interconnection matrix of a photovoltaic total-cross-tied array, which reaches the global maximum power point under non-homogeneous insolation. Thus, the intelligent reconfigurable photovoltaic system represents an effective machine learning application in a photovoltaic system. We demonstrate the advantages of the created intelligent reconfigurable photovoltaic system by simulations. The simulation results reveal robustness against photovoltaic system uncertainties and better performance and control speed of the proposed intelligent reconfigurable photovoltaic system under non-homogeneous insolation as compared to a GA-based reconfiguration total-cross-tied photovoltaic system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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11 pages, 4807 KiB  
Article
Comparative Simulations of Conductive Nitrides as Alternative Plasmonic Nanostructures for Solar Cells
by Christin David, Lejo Joseph Koduvelikulathu and Radovan Kopecek
Energies 2021, 14(14), 4236; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144236 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1424
Abstract
Particle layers employing conductive transition metal nitrides have been proposed as possible alternative plasmonic materials for photovoltaic applications due to their reduced losses compared to metal nanostructures. We critically compare the potential photocurrent gain from an additional layer made of nanopillars of nitrides [...] Read more.
Particle layers employing conductive transition metal nitrides have been proposed as possible alternative plasmonic materials for photovoltaic applications due to their reduced losses compared to metal nanostructures. We critically compare the potential photocurrent gain from an additional layer made of nanopillars of nitrides with other material classes obtained in an optimized c-Si baseline solar cell, considering an experimental doping profile. A relative photocurrent gain enhancement of on average 5% to 10% is observed, achieving for a few scenarios around 30% gain. The local field enhancement is moderate around the resonances for nitrides which spread over the whole ultraviolet and visible range. We can characterize two types of nitrides: nitrides for which the shading effect remains a problem similar to for metals, and others which behave like dielectric scatterers with high photocurrent gain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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10 pages, 1228 KiB  
Article
On the Nature of the One-Diode Solar Cell Model Parameters
by Andreea Sabadus and Marius Paulescu
Energies 2021, 14(13), 3974; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14133974 - 02 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2371
Abstract
The one-diode model is probably the most common equivalent electrical circuit of a real crystalline solar cell. Extensive research has focused on extracting model parameters from measurements performed in standard test conditions (STC), aiming to replicate the current-voltage characteristics (I-V). This study started [...] Read more.
The one-diode model is probably the most common equivalent electrical circuit of a real crystalline solar cell. Extensive research has focused on extracting model parameters from measurements performed in standard test conditions (STC), aiming to replicate the current-voltage characteristics (I-V). This study started from finding that, for the same solar cell, different scientific reports yield significantly different sets of parameters, all allowing for highly accurate replication of the measured I-V characteristics. This observation raises a big question: What is the true physical set of parameters? The present study attempts to address this question. For this purpose, a numerical experiment was conducted. The results show that there is an infinity of distinct sets of parameters that can replicate the I-V characteristics at STC via the one-diode model equation. The diode saturation current IS and the diode ideality factor compensate each other to preserve the open-circuit voltage VOC, always an input data point. Some possible approaches (e.g., the link between VOC and IS) that can lead to the physical set of parameters are discussed, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. There is enough room for future research on finding a universal approach able to guarantee the accurate extraction of the one-diode model physical parameters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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18 pages, 3807 KiB  
Article
Yearly Electrical Energy Assessment of a Photovoltaic Platform/Geothermal Heat Pump Prosumer
by Macedon Moldovan, Bogdan-Gabriel Burduhos and Ion Visa
Energies 2021, 14(13), 3776; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14133776 - 23 Jun 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1374
Abstract
Romania introduced in 2018 an amendment to the national law 220/2008 by including the Prosumer concept that allows investors in grid-connected photovoltaic systems with a capacity up to 27 kWp to receive a feed in tariff for the electricity delivered to the grid [...] Read more.
Romania introduced in 2018 an amendment to the national law 220/2008 by including the Prosumer concept that allows investors in grid-connected photovoltaic systems with a capacity up to 27 kWp to receive a feed in tariff for the electricity delivered to the grid representing approximatively one third of the price paid when the electricity is consumed from the grid. Thus, the challenge is to use as much as possible the photovoltaic power when it is produced. A methodology is developed to evaluate how much of the electrical energy output of a grid-connected photovoltaic platform is used by a geothermal heat pump for space heating in a building. A numerical simulation is performed in Trnsys17 based on locally measured meteorological parameters over a period of one entire year. A case study is presented for which the characteristics of the building, of the heat pump system and of the photovoltaic system are described and integrated into the transient simulation environment. The numerical results are comparatively presented and discussed along with experimental data for sunny days in cold season. For the analysed case study, the self-consumption is 16%, significantly lower than the yearly coverage degree of 70%. Further research can be done to increase the self-consumption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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21 pages, 66108 KiB  
Article
Numerical Modelling and Digitalization Analysis for a Photovoltaic Pumping System Placed in the South of Romania
by Laurentiu Fara, Dan Craciunescu and Silvian Fara
Energies 2021, 14(10), 2778; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14102778 - 12 May 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1919
Abstract
The authors studied a working off-grid type photovoltaic (PV) pumping system for irrigation use. The methodology was based on digitalization analysis and numerical modeling as a preliminary stage. A mathematical model of the PV pumping installation considered the determination of the characteristic equations [...] Read more.
The authors studied a working off-grid type photovoltaic (PV) pumping system for irrigation use. The methodology was based on digitalization analysis and numerical modeling as a preliminary stage. A mathematical model of the PV pumping installation considered the determination of the characteristic equations for all its components. These have been used together with the SISIFO simulation software to achieve the performances of the mechanical and electrical components of an advanced PV pumping system. Its global performance features, namely the monthly energy yield, monthly pumping yield, and monthly total performances (energy and flow rate) were introduced. Digital platform (DP) for PV systems characterized by three advanced technologies—machine learning (ML), digital twin (DT) and artificial intelligence (AI) was developed. The simulation results were discussed for a specific case study conducted for a location in the Southern Romania regarding the irrigation potential, taking into account the main meteorological parameters: solar irradiance and ambient temperature, related to the site. The AI approach was implemented to achieve an optimum operation of the PV pumping system by the use of the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method and the MATLAB/Simulink software. A unified development of all the components of the PV pumping system using the SISIFO simulation software was established by the authors, with major implications in the development of solar PV installations on large-scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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19 pages, 3252 KiB  
Article
Improving the Solar Reliability Factor of a Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System Using Energy-Efficient Testing Solutions
by Sorin Liviu Jurj, Raul Rotar, Flavius Opritoiu and Mircea Vladutiu
Energies 2021, 14(7), 2009; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14072009 - 05 Apr 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2230
Abstract
This paper presents an improved mathematical model for calculating the solar test factor (STF) and solar reliability factor (SRF) of a photovoltaic (PV) automated equipment. By employing a unified metrics system and a combined testing suite encompassing various energy-efficient testing techniques, the aim [...] Read more.
This paper presents an improved mathematical model for calculating the solar test factor (STF) and solar reliability factor (SRF) of a photovoltaic (PV) automated equipment. By employing a unified metrics system and a combined testing suite encompassing various energy-efficient testing techniques, the aim of this paper is to determine a general fault coverage and improve the global SRF of a closed-loop dual-axis solar tracking system. Accelerated testing coupled with reliability analysis are essential tools for assessing the performance of modern solar tracking devices since PV system malfunctioning is directly connected to economic loss, which is an important aspect for the solar energy domain. The experimental results show that the unified metrics system is potentially suitable for assessing the reliability evaluation of many types of solar tracking systems. Additionally, the proposed combined testing platform proves efficient regarding fault coverage (overall coverage of 66.35% for all test scenarios), test time (an average of 275 min for 2864 test cycles), and power consumption (zero costs regarding electricity consumption for all considered test cases) points of view. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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24 pages, 1611 KiB  
Article
Fault Coverage-Aware Metrics for Evaluating the Reliability Factor of Solar Tracking Systems
by Raul Rotar, Sorin Liviu Jurj, Flavius Opritoiu and Mircea Vladutiu
Energies 2021, 14(4), 1074; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14041074 - 18 Feb 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2315
Abstract
This paper presents a mathematical approach for determining the reliability of solar tracking systems based on three fault coverage-aware metrics which use system error data from hardware, software as well as in-circuit testing (ICT) techniques, to calculate a solar test factor (STF). Using [...] Read more.
This paper presents a mathematical approach for determining the reliability of solar tracking systems based on three fault coverage-aware metrics which use system error data from hardware, software as well as in-circuit testing (ICT) techniques, to calculate a solar test factor (STF). Using Euler’s named constant, the solar reliability factor (SRF) is computed to define the robustness and availability of modern, high-performance solar tracking systems. The experimental cases which were run in the Mathcad software suite and the Python programming environment show that the fault coverage-aware metrics greatly change the test and reliability factor curve of solar tracking systems, achieving significantly reduced calculation steps and computation time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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15 pages, 3357 KiB  
Article
Global Horizontal Irradiance Modeling for All Sky Conditions Using an Image-Pixel Approach
by Manoel Henriques de Sá Campos and Chigueru Tiba
Energies 2020, 13(24), 6719; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13246719 - 19 Dec 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1709
Abstract
Ground images with a sky camera have become common to evaluate cloud coverage, aerosols, and energy collection. In parallel, the growth of solar energy has led to an impulse to evaluate and forecast the solar potential in a site before investments, which has [...] Read more.
Ground images with a sky camera have become common to evaluate cloud coverage, aerosols, and energy collection. In parallel, the growth of solar energy has led to an impulse to evaluate and forecast the solar potential in a site before investments, which has increased the importance of solar power measurements. Facing that scenario, this work presents a novel sky camera model that allows to measure the global horizontal irradiance (GHI). Initially, images from a fisheye camera were stored and a pixel-based approach model was created for cloud segmentation. A total of 813 k vectors of features were used as input to the support vector machine for classification (SVC), which yielded a success rate of about 98.6% in accuracy. The Sun’s position was also segmented and an artificial neural network (ANN) regression model for GHI with 17 input features was created based on segmentation of the Sun, clouds, and sky. The training/validation stage of the ANN used 89,964 samples and the test stage reached about 97.4% in Pearson’s correlation. The RMSE was 72.3 W/m2 for GHI and the normalized RMSE, nRMSE, revealed 12.9% for GHI. That nRMSE value was comparable to or lower than other studies, despite the high fluctuations in the observed GHI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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Review

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31 pages, 5806 KiB  
Review
Review: Heterojunction Tandem Solar Cells on Si-Based Metal Oxides
by Laurentiu Fara, Irinela Chilibon, Dan Craciunescu, Alexandru Diaconu and Silvian Fara
Energies 2023, 16(7), 3033; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073033 - 26 Mar 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2008
Abstract
PV technology offers a sustainable solution to the increased energy demand especially based on mono- and polycrystalline silicon solar cells. The most recent years have allowed the successful development of perovskite and tandem heterojunction Si-based solar cells with energy conversion efficiency over 28%. [...] Read more.
PV technology offers a sustainable solution to the increased energy demand especially based on mono- and polycrystalline silicon solar cells. The most recent years have allowed the successful development of perovskite and tandem heterojunction Si-based solar cells with energy conversion efficiency over 28%. The metal oxide heterojunction tandem solar cells have a great potential application in the future photovoltaic field. Cu2O (band gap of 2.07 eV) and ZnO (band gap of 3.3 eV) are very good materials for solar cells and their features completely justify the high interest for the research of tandem heterojunction based on them. This review article analyzes high-efficiency silicon-based tandem heterojunction solar cells (HTSCs) with metal oxides. It is structured on six chapters dedicated to four main issues: (1) fabrication techniques and device architecture; (2) characterization of Cu2O and ZnO layers; (3) numerical modelling of Cu2O/ZnO HTSC; (4) stability and reliability approach. The device architecture establishes that the HTSC is constituted from two sub-cells: ZnO/Cu2O and c-Si. The four terminal tandem solar cells contribute to the increased current density and conversion efficiency. Cu2O and ZnO materials are defined as promising candidates for high-efficiency solar devices due to the morphological, structural, and optical characterization emphasized. Based on multiscale modelling of PV technology, the electrical and optical numerical modelling of the two sub-cells of HTSC are presented. At the same time, the thermal stability and reliability approach are essential and needed for an optimum operation of HTSC, concerning the cell lifetime and degradation degree. Further progress on flexible HTSC could determine that such advanced solar devices would become commercially sustainable in the near future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis and Numerical Modeling in Solar Photovoltaic Systems)
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