Implementation of photovoltaic models into diesel powered micro-grids and residential distribution systems using measured insolation data

Abstract

Throughout the world the use of photovoltaic (PV) energy sources is quickly accelerating. The amount of energy produced by a PV system can vary greatly by location and from day to day and season to season. This presents a problem for power generation dispatch and management. This thesis contains a design for a low cost solar radiation meter which generates data that can be used to create a simulation of the power produced by a given solar system. The solar radiation sensor is based on an Arduino Uno micro computer. Over time this information can also be used to create custom realistic solar models for proposed or current solar sites. This thesis contains a simulation program written using MATLAB that uses a mathematical model of a solar cell and the data collected from the solar radiation sensor to simulate the power generation of a given defined system.

Finally, the impacts of adding distributed PV generation to a residential distribution system are explored. Power Systems Toolbox is again used to simulate PV generation based on real data gathered from several solar radiation sensors. The sensors collected their data on the same days, with slightly different orientations. The results of power flow in simulations at various levels of penetration with assorted orientations of panels on homes are shown. The demand curves used in this model are based on the standard residential model. This analysis serves as a prediction of the impact of increased distributed solar generation on residential distribution systems.

The thesis continues with an analysis of the impact of the PV generation on a small remote micro grid powered with a diesel generator. Slightly different than a traditional micro grid, these systems are completely isolated from the traditional power gird. This micro grid is modeled as a single-phase approximation of a three-phase system. A custom designed demand curve is developed based on the design and unique cycles of life associated with these remote camps. The inclusion of PV generation into these types of systems, which are often in remote locations, can have significant cost and fuel consumption reductions. Simulated in this thesis is the impact of adding a PV system of various sizes to this micro grid and the benefits of that addition. Power Systems Toolbox is used to conduct all of the simulations for this micro grid.