Methodology for the design optimisation and the economic analysis of grid-connected photovoltaic systems
- 1 January 2009
- journal article
- Published by Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) in IET Renewable Power Generation
- Vol. 3 (4), 476-492
- https://doi.org/10.1049/iet-rpg.2008.0069
Abstract
In this study, a methodology for the design optimisation and the economic analysis of photovoltaic grid-connected systems (PVGCSs) is presented. The purpose of the proposed methodology is to suggest, among a list of commercially available system devices, the optimal number and type of system devices and the optimal values of the photovoltaic (PV) module installation details, such that the total net economic benefit achieved during the system operational lifetime period is maximised. The decision variables included in the optimisation process are the optimal number and type of the PV modules and the DC/AC converters, the PV modules optimal tilt angle, the optimal arrangement of the PV modules within the available installation area and the optimal distribution of the PV modules among the DC/AC converters. The economic viability of the resulting PVGCS configuration is explored according to the net present value, the discounted payback period and the internal rate of return methods. The proposed method has been applied for the optimal design of a PVGCS interconnected to the electric network of an island with significant solar irradiation potential and the corresponding optimal sizing and economic analysis results are presented.Keywords
This publication has 10 references indexed in Scilit:
- Environmental decision-support systems for evaluating the carrying capacity of land areas: Optimal site selection for grid-connected photovoltaic power plantsRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2008
- Conditions and costs for renewables electricity grid connection: Examples in EuropeRenewable Energy, 2008
- Optimal allocation and sizing for profitability and voltage enhancement of PV systems on feedersRenewable Energy, 2007
- Tables for the estimation of the internal rate of return of photovoltaic grid-connected systemsRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2007
- The impact of array inclination and orientation on the performance of a grid-connected photovoltaic systemRenewable Energy, 2007
- Optimal sizing of array and inverter for grid-connected photovoltaic systemsSolar Energy, 2006
- PV array <5kWp+single inverter=grid connected PV system: Are multiple inverter alternatives economic?Solar Energy, 2006
- Economical and environmental analysis of grid connected photovoltaic systems in SpainRenewable Energy, 2006
- Optimal sizing of grid-connected PV-systems for different climates and array orientations: a simulation studySolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 1994
- Genetic Algorithms + Data Structures = Evolution ProgramsPublished by Springer Science and Business Media LLC ,1992