Abstract
Modeling performance characteristics is essential for the design and optimal operation of solar power plants. However, due to the influence of various factors on the performance of solar panels and data changes over time, determining an exact relationship between output power and weather conditions is still challenging. In this chapter, a hybrid method based on genetic programming will be presented for accurate modeling of solar power plant characteristics, which includes two steps. First, three points of open-circuit voltage, maximum power point, and short-circuit current are modeled as functions of atmospheric conditions. For this purpose, by using the modeling process based on genetic programming, relationships with high fit will be obtained for these three points in terms of cell temperature and radiation. Then, with the help of these equations, the voltage–current characteristics are modeled based on the circuit analysis methods and without the need for factory data. To evaluate the modeling for a 3 kW solar power plant, and based on the results, the effectiveness of the proposed method will be shown.