Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community

Abstract

Background The escalating global population, surpassing seven billion in 2012, amplifies the strain on existing resources for food, housing, and conventional energy. Addressing these challenges requires the development of economically and environmentally viable renewable energy technologies. Photovoltaic (PV) solar modules stand out for their eco-friendly operation and reliability. In off-grid communities, stand-alone PV systems, coupled with battery storage, play a pivotal role in meeting electrical energy needs. Methods This study enhances the understanding of stand-alone PV systems through modeling and simulation using MATLAB software. A multi-crystalline PV system, specifically the Kyocera KC130GT, is investigated under varying conditions, and a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller is employed for battery charging. Results The study reveals profound effects on energy production based on the I-V and P-V characteristics of the modeled system when a PWM controller is utilized. The system demonstrates successful energy generation under different conditions, accounting for temperature variations and PV battery voltage mismatches. Conclusion The simulated model serves as a versatile system capable of detecting different conditions in varying light and temperature scenarios. Effective temperature monitoring, voltage adjustment using a suitable charger controller, and the selection of optimal materials for solar modules can significantly enhance the system’s efficiency. The results emphasize the importance of careful consideration of PV system sizing corresponding to battery capacity for improved solar system efficiency. While the cost of the modeled stand-alone PV system is currently low, scalability to larger projects may incur increased costs due to the high prices of photovoltaic panels, batteries, and other components.