Editorial

3 pages, 189 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

PV Tracking Systems

by Cătălin Alexandru

Energies 2023, 16(6), 2769; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16062769 - 16 Mar 2023

Viewed by 783

Dramatic climate change has been well-observed for several years, mainly due to the effects of pollution caused by the burning of fossil fuels [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

Research

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13 pages, 2528 KiB

Open AccessArticle

npTrack: A n-Position Single Axis Solar Tracker Model for Optimized Energy Collection

by Manoel Henriques de Sá Campos and Chigueru Tiba

Energies 2021, 14(4), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14040925 - 10 Feb 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3366

Abstract

The single axis solar tracker based on flat panels is used in large solar plants and in distribution-level photovoltaic systems. In order to achieve this, the solar tracking systems generally need to work by tracking the sun’s position with dozens, maybe hundreds of [...] Read more.

The single axis solar tracker based on flat panels is used in large solar plants and in distribution-level photovoltaic systems. In order to achieve this, the solar tracking systems generally need to work by tracking the sun’s position with dozens, maybe hundreds of movements along the day with a maximal known tracking error within the specifications. A novel model is proposed along this work based on the control of the angle deviation within a (polar) single axis configuration. This way an optimization of the harnessing of solar energy can be achieved with as few panel displacements as possible in order to decrease the wear in the mechanical parts of the equipment and the energy consumed by it. This tracking approach was implemented with as few as seven positions along the day and got an estimated theoretical value of 99.27% of the total collected energy in a continuous tracking system. Regarding an annual average basis, it would be about 96.5% of a dual axis system according to the proposed model. The novelty of the model is related to a tradeoff between the gain with the simplicity of a single axis n-position tracking and the solar energy loss associated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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18 pages, 12832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Capacitive Load-Based Smart OTF for High Power Rated SPV Module

by Javed Sayyad, Paresh Nasikkar, Abhaya Pal Singh and Stepan Ozana

Energies 2021, 14(3), 788; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14030788 - 02 Feb 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2588

Abstract

Solar energy is the most promising renewable resource with an unbounded energy source, capable of meeting all human energy requirements. Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) is an effective approach to convert sunlight into electricity, and it has a promising future with consistently rising energy demand. [...] Read more.

Solar energy is the most promising renewable resource with an unbounded energy source, capable of meeting all human energy requirements. Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) is an effective approach to convert sunlight into electricity, and it has a promising future with consistently rising energy demand. In this work, we propose a smart solution of outdoor performance characterization of the SPV module utilizing a robust, lightweight, portable, and economical Outdoor Test Facility (OTF) with the Internet of Things (IoT) capability. This approach is focused on the capacitive load-based method, which offers improved accuracy and cost-effective data logging using Raspberry Pi and enables the OTF to sweep during the characterization of the SPV module automatically. A demonstration using an experimental setup is also provided in the paper to validate the proposed OTF. This paper further discusses the advantages of using the capacitive load approach over the resistive load approach. IoT’s inherent benefits empower the proposed OTF method on the backgrounds of real-time tracking, data acquisition, and analysis for outdoor output performance characterization by capturing Current–Voltage (I–V) and Power–Voltage (P–V) curves of the SPV module. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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16 pages, 27253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Optimized PV Control System Based on the Emperor Penguin Optimizer

by Mariam A. Sameh, Mostafa I. Marei, M. A. Badr and Mahmoud A. Attia

Energies 2021, 14(3), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14030751 - 01 Feb 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 2455

Abstract

During the day, photovoltaic (PV) systems are exposed to different sunlight conditions in addition to partial shading (PS). Accordingly, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques have become essential for PV systems to secure harvesting the maximum possible power from the PV modules. In [...] Read more.

During the day, photovoltaic (PV) systems are exposed to different sunlight conditions in addition to partial shading (PS). Accordingly, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques have become essential for PV systems to secure harvesting the maximum possible power from the PV modules. In this paper, optimized control is performed through the application of relatively newly developed optimization algorithms to PV systems under Partial Shading (PS) conditions. The initial value of the duty cycle of the boost converter is optimized for maximizing the amount of power extracted from the PV arrays. The emperor penguin optimizer (EPO) is proposed not only to optimize the initial setting of duty cycle but to tune the gains of controllers used for the boost converter and the grid-connected inverter of the PV system. In addition, the performance of the proposed system based on the EPO algorithm is compared with another newly developed optimization technique based on the cuttlefish algorithm (CFA). Moreover, particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used as a reference algorithm to compare results with both EPO and CFA. PSO is chosen since it is an old, well-tested, and effective algorithm. For the evaluation of performance of the proposed PV system using the proposed algorithms under different PS conditions, results are recorded and introduced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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30 pages, 3196 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of the Bi-Axial Tracking System for a Photovoltaic Platform

by Cătălin Alexandru

Energies 2021, 14(3), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14030535 - 21 Jan 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2154

Abstract

The article deals with the optimization of the azimuthal tracking mechanism for a photovoltaic (PV) platform, which uses linear actuators as actuation elements for both movements (diurnal and elevation). In the case of diurnal movement, where the platform’s angular field of orientation is [...] Read more.

The article deals with the optimization of the azimuthal tracking mechanism for a photovoltaic (PV) platform, which uses linear actuators as actuation elements for both movements (diurnal and elevation). In the case of diurnal movement, where the platform’s angular field of orientation is large, a mechanism with a relatively simple structure is used for amplifying the actuator’s stroke and avoiding the risk of the system locking itself (by limiting the values of the transmission angle). The optimization study targets the mechanical device, the control device, and the bi-axial tracking program (embodied by the laws of motion in time for the platform’s diurnal and elevation angles) with the purpose of obtaining a high input of solar radiation, with a minimal energy consumption to achieve tracking. The study is carried out by using a virtual prototyping platform, which includes Computer Aided Design (CAD), Multi-Body Systems (MBS), and Design for Control (DFC) computer applications. The mechanical and control devices of the solar tracker are integrated and tested in mechatronic concept. The simulations’ results, which were performed for a set of representative days throughout the year, prove the effectiveness of the proposed design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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19 pages, 8253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Maximum Power Point Tracking Method Based on a Modified Grasshopper Algorithm Combined with Incremental Conductance

by Bustani Hadi Wijaya, Ramadhani Kurniawan Subroto, Kuo Lung Lian and Nanang Hariyanto

Energies 2020, 13(17), 4329; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13174329 - 20 Aug 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2235

Abstract

The partial shading of photovoltaic (PV) modules due to clouds or blocking objects, such as buildings or tree leaves, is a common problem for photovoltaic systems. To address this, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is implemented to find the global maximum power point [...] Read more.

The partial shading of photovoltaic (PV) modules due to clouds or blocking objects, such as buildings or tree leaves, is a common problem for photovoltaic systems. To address this, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is implemented to find the global maximum power point (GMPP). In this paper, a new hybrid MPPT is proposed that combines a modified grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) with incremental conductance (IC). In the first stage, the proposed modified GOA is implemented to find a suitable tracking area where the GMPP is located. Then the system moves to the second stage by implementing IC to get the correct GMPP. IC is a fast-performing and reliable algorithm. By combining GOA and IC, the proposed method can find the GMPP accurately with a short tracking time. Various experimental results show that the proposed method yields the highest tracking efficiency and lowest tracking time compared to some of the state-of-the-art MPPT algorithms, such as particle swarm and modified firefly optimizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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15 pages, 573 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Solar Position Calculation Methods Applied to Horizontal Single-Axis Solar Trackers on Energy Generation

by Karen Barbosa de Melo, Hugo Soeiro Moreira and Marcelo Gradella Villalva

Energies 2020, 13(15), 3826; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13153826 - 25 Jul 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3282

Abstract

Photovoltaic systems have been explored as a solution to meet the growing demand for electricity from a clean and renewable source. However, the low energy conversion efficiency of photovoltaic panels is one of the critical factors that hinder the competitiveness of this energy [...] Read more.

Photovoltaic systems have been explored as a solution to meet the growing demand for electricity from a clean and renewable source. However, the low energy conversion efficiency of photovoltaic panels is one of the critical factors that hinder the competitiveness of this energy source concerning the others. An effective way to improve the efficiency of photovoltaic systems is by using solar trackers. The tracking strategy most used in photovoltaic plants employs algorithms to calculate the Sun position. This work presents energy generation estimation applying six algorithms in horizontal single-axis solar tracking: the Solar Position Algorithm (SPA) and Grena 1–5 algorithms. The aim is to evaluate the influence of these algorithms on energy generation. For all simulated locations, comparing to an ideal scenario, the SPA presented the best energy generation results. However, the other algorithms showed negligible differences between themselves, which allows us to conclude that any of the algorithms can be used without implying significant energy losses. Thus, Grena 1–2 can be highlighted for easier implementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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16 pages, 4979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wireless Sliding MPPT Control of Photovoltaic Systems in Distributed Generation Systems

by Aranzazu D. Martin, Juan M. Cano, Reyes S. Herrera and Jesus R. Vazquez

Energies 2019, 12(17), 3226; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12173226 - 21 Aug 2019

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2202

Abstract

The aim of a photovoltaic (PV) system’s control is the extraction of the maximum power even if the irradiance, the temperature, or the parameters vary. To do that, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is required. In this work, a sliding control [...] Read more.

The aim of a photovoltaic (PV) system’s control is the extraction of the maximum power even if the irradiance, the temperature, or the parameters vary. To do that, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is required. In this work, a sliding control is designed to regulate the PV modules’ output voltage and make the panel work at the maximum power voltage. This control is selected to improve the robustness, the transient dynamic response, and the time response of the system under changeable environmental conditions, adjusting the duty cycle of the DC/DC converter. The DC/DC converter connected to the PV module output is a buck-boost converter. This configuration presents the advantage of providing voltages lower or higher than supplied by the photovoltaic modules to provide the required voltage to the load (including the voltages ceded by telecommunication loads, amongst others). In addition, a remote sliding control is developed to make the global supervision of the PV system in distributed generation grids. The designed algorithm is tested in an experimental platform, both locally and remotely connected to the base station, to prove the effectiveness of the sliding control. Thus, the communication effect in the control is also analyzed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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Review

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24 pages, 5304 KiB

Open AccessReview

Solar Photovoltaic Tracking Systems for Electricity Generation: A Review

by Sebastijan Seme, Bojan Štumberger, Miralem Hadžiselimović and Klemen Sredenšek

Energies 2020, 13(16), 4224; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13164224 - 15 Aug 2020

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 7288

Abstract

This paper presents a thorough review of state-of-the-art research and literature in the field of photovoltaic tracking systems for the production of electrical energy. A review of the literature is performed mainly for the field of solar photovoltaic tracking systems, which gives this [...] Read more.

This paper presents a thorough review of state-of-the-art research and literature in the field of photovoltaic tracking systems for the production of electrical energy. A review of the literature is performed mainly for the field of solar photovoltaic tracking systems, which gives this paper the necessary foundation. Solar systems can be roughly divided into three fields: the generation of thermal energy (solar collectors), the generation of electrical energy (photovoltaic systems), and the generation of electrical energy/thermal energy (hybrid systems). The development of photovoltaic systems began in the mid-19th century, followed shortly by research in the field of tracking systems. With the development of tracking systems, different types of tracking systems, drives, designs, and tracking strategies were also defined. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of photovoltaic tracking systems, as well as the latest studies that have been done in recent years. The review will be supplemented with a factual presentation of the tracking systems used at the Institute of Energy Technology of the University of Maribor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue PV Tracking Systems)

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