An improved algorithm for photovoltaic system sizing

A decision on the system requirements of a photovoltaic (PV) power plant is becoming critical as its components are very costly. An accurate and optimum sizing is in demand. This study proposes some modification to the existing approach of PV sizing by incorporating the battery rate factor into the sizing process. This new approach helps in eliminating the excess battery requirements without affecting the existing load demand. The results of the proposed algorithm is compared and validated with the system data for two existing PV power plants. An analytical methodology is developed for evaluating the sizing for varying rate factors. A new limit is defined for the battery charging hours to avoid the need for additional battery bank units. The knowledge of minimum battery charging rate is a useful input, for a system designer, in selecting the charge controller ratings. The code is developed in MATLAB based on the mathematical models proposed in the algorithm. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of organizing committee of 2nd International Conference on Advances in Energy Engineering (ICAEE).