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Performance Parameters for Grid-Connected PV Systems
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National Renewable Energy Laboratory National Renewable Energy Laboratory 1617 Cole Boulevard, Golden, Colorado 80401-3393 303-275-3000 * www.nrel.gov Operated for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy by Midwest Research Institute * Battelle Contract No. DE-AC36-99-GO10337 B. Marion, J. Adelstein, and K. Boyle National Renewable Energy Laboratory H. Hayden, B. Hammond, T. Fletcher, B. Canada, and D. Narang Arizona Public Service Co. D. Shugar, H. Wenger, A. Kimber, and L. Mitchell PowerLight Corporation G. Rich and T. Townsend First Solar Prepared for the 31 st IEEE Photovoltaics Specialists Conference and Exhibition Lake Buena Vista, Florida January 3-7, 2005 February 2005 * NREL/CP-520-37358 Performance Parameters for Grid-Connected PV Systems
Battery Sizing for Grid Connected PV Systems with Fixed Minimum Charging/Discharging Time
E-Print Network (OSTI)
Battery Sizing for Grid Connected PV Systems with Fixed Minimum Charging/Discharging Time Yu Ru, Jan Kleissl, and Sonia Martinez Abstract-- In this paper, we study a battery sizing problem for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems assuming that the battery charging/discharging limit scales linearly with its
Martínez, Sonia
Remote performance check and automated failure identification for grid-connected PV systems
energy yield against an expected, simulated value. A PV simulation model, which employs inexpensiveRemote performance check and automated failure identification for grid-connected PV systems reliable operation of small systems up to 5 kWp. The detection and identification of a failure is strongly
Heinemann, Detlev
FORECAST OF ENSEMBLE POWER PRODUCTION BY GRID-CONNECTED PV SYSTEMS Elke Lorenz*, Detlev Heinemann*, Hashini Wickramarathne*, Hans Georg Beyer +
FORECAST OF ENSEMBLE POWER PRODUCTION BY GRID-CONNECTED PV SYSTEMS Elke Lorenz*, Detlev Heinemann will highly benefit from forecast information on the expected power production. This forecast information and evaluate an approach to forecast regional PV power production. The forecast quality was investigated
Case Studies of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems, Vol. 1
Science Conference Proceedings (OSTI)
This interim report documents a number of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) case studies, covering a broad range of different system and project types.
Evolutionary algorithms for the design of grid-connected PV-systems
The sale of electric energy generated by photovoltaic (PV) plants has attracted much attention in recent years. The installation of PV plants aims to obtain the maximum benefit of captured solar energy. The current methodologies for planning the design ... Keywords: Differential evolution, Evolutionary algorithms, Numerical optimization, Photovoltaic plants
Daniel G�mez-Lorente; Isaac Triguero; Consolaci�n Gil; A. Esp�n Estrella
Development of a low-cost integrated 20-kW ac solar tracking sub- array for grid-connected PV power system applications. Phase 1, Annual technical report, 11 July 1995--31 July 1996
DOE Green Energy (OSTI)
The overall goal of this effort is to reduce the installed cost of utility scale grid connected photovoltaic power systems. The focus of the effort is on ``BOS`` (Balance-Of-System) component manufacturing technology, which essentially involves all PV power system engineering, manufacturing, assembly and construction tasks from the receipt of a PV module to the deliver of grid connected electricity.
Stern, M.; West, R.; Fourer, G.; Whalen, W.; Van Loo, M.; Duran, G. [Utility Power Group, Chatsworth, CA (United States)
GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems...
Open Energy Info (EERE)
GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems (Smart Grid Project) Jump to: navigation, search Project Name GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity...
Development of a low cost integrated 15 kW A.C. solar tracking sub-array for grid connected PV power system applications
SciTech Connect
Utility Power Group has achieved a significant reduction in the installed cost of grid-connected PV systems. The two part technical approach focused on (1) The utilization of a large area factory assembled PV panel, and (2) The integration and packaging of all sub-array power conversion and control functions within a single factory produced enclosure. Eight engineering prototype 15kW ac single axis solar tracking sub-arrays were designed, fabricated, and installed at the Sacramento Municipal Utility District{close_quote}s Hedge Substation site in 1996 and are being evaluated for performance and reliability. A number of design enhancements will be implemented in 1997 and demonstrated by the field deployment and operation of over twenty advanced sub-array PV power systems. {copyright} {ital 1997 American Institute of Physics.}
Stern, M.; West, R.; Fourer, G.; Whalen, W.; Van Loo, M.; Duran, G. [Utility Power Group, 9410 G De Soto Avenue, Chatsworth, California 91311 (United States)
Case Studies of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems, Vol. 2
The photovoltaic (PV) industry is growing rapidly, and PV power is likely to become an increasingly significant source of distributed generation as its cost declines over the next ten years. This report documents a number of grid-connected photovoltaic case studies covering a broad range of system configurations and project types. The report provides field experience useful to improve the design of future PV systems and identifies problems that need to be addressed to promote the integration of PV power ...
Utility Grid-Connected Distributed Power Systems
Grid-Connected Distributed Power Systems National Solar Energy Conference ASES Solar 96 Asheville, NC April 1996 Donald E. OsbornDavid E. Collier Sacramento Municipal Utility...
Jump to: navigation, search Project Name GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems Country Spain Coordinates 40.338169, -3.438721 Loading map......
Case Studies of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems, Volume 3
The photovoltaics industry is growing rapidly, and photovoltaic (PV) power is likely to become an increasingly significant source of distributed generation as its cost declines over the next ten years. This report completes a series of three volumes documenting more than a dozen grid-connected PV case studies in all and covering a broad range of system configurations and project types. The report provides field experience useful to improve the design of future PV systems and identifies problems that need...
The inverter is a major component of photovoltaic (PV) systems either autonomous or grid connected. It affects the
Solar Power ........................1 1.1 Global Installed PV Capacity ........................................................................................................................................18 2 Industry Trends, Photovoltaic and Concentrating Solar Power ...........................21 2.1 PV.3.4.5 Quality Assurance and Certification for Solar PV Installation.................46 2.3.5 References
Oregon, University of
Design of a single-phase grid-connected photovoltaic systems based on Fuzzy-PID controller
The output power of photovoltaic (PV) module varies with module temperature, solar isolation and 1oads changes etc. In order to control the output power of single-phase grid-connected PV system according to the output power PV arrays. In this paper a ... Keywords: DC/AC inverter, fuzzy-PID control, grid-connected, photovoltaic system
Fengwen Cao; Yiwang Wang
Protection and Control for Grid Connected Photovoltaic Power Generation System Based on Instantaneous Power Theory
Reliable protection and reasonable control run an important role in grid connected PV power generation system. The detection and calculation of real and reactive power are the bases of many inverter resident passive and active islanding detection method ... Keywords: Distributed generation, photovoltaic system, grid connected, protection and control, power theory
Fei Wang; Chengcheng Zhang
Grid Connected Photovoltaic Systems with SmartGrid functionality.
?? SummaryThis master?s thesis is focused on the design of grid connected PV power stage inverter. This inverter will be used for solar power application� (more)
Massawe, Henry Benedict
Development of a low-cost integrated 20-kW-AC solar tracking subarray for grid-connected PV power system applications. Final technical report
This report chronicles Utility Power Group's (UPG) successful two-year Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology (PVMaT) Phase 4A1 work effort which began in July, 1995. During this period, UPG completed design, fabrication, testing and demonstration of a modular and fully integrated 15-kW-ac, solar tracking PV power system sub-array. The two key and innovative components which were developed are a Modular Panel which optimizes factory assembly of PV modules into a large area, field-deployable, structurally-integrated PV panel, and an Integrated Power Processing Unit which combines all dc and ac power collection, conversion and control functions within a single, field-deployable structurally-integrated electrical enclosure. These two key sub-array elements, when combined with a number of other electrical, mechanical, and structural components, create a low-cost and high-performance PV power system. This system, or sub-array, can be deployed in individual units, or paralleled with any number of other sub-arrays, to construct multi-megawatt P fields. 21 figs.
Stern, M.; Duran, G.; Fourer, G.; Mackamul, K.; Whalen, W.; Loo, M. van; West, R. [Utility Power Group, Chatsworth, CA (US)
Storage Size Determination for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems
In this paper, we study the problem of determining the size of battery storage used in grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems. In our setting, electricity is generated from PV and is used to supply the demand from loads. Excess electricity generated from the PV can be stored in a battery to be used later on, and electricity must be purchased from the electric grid if the PV generation and battery discharging cannot meet the demand. The objective is to minimize the electricity purchase from the electric grid while at the same time choosing an appropriate battery size. More specifically, we want to find a unique critical value (denoted as $E_{max}^c$) of the battery size such that the cost of electricity purchase remains the same if the battery size is larger than or equal to $E_{max}^c$, and the cost is strictly larger if the battery size is smaller than $E_{max}^c$. We propose an upper bound on $E_{max}^c$, and show that the upper bound is achievable for certain scenarios. For the case with ideal PV generat...
Ru, Yu; Martinez, Sonia
Electricity storage for grid-connected household dwellings with PV panels
Classically electricity storage for PV panels is mostly designed for stand-alone applications. In contrast, we focus in this article on houses connected to the grid with a small-scale storage to store a part of the solar power for postponed consumption within the day or the next days. In this way the house owner becomes less dependent on the grid and does only pay for the net shortage of his energy production. Local storage solutions pave the way for many new applications like omitting over-voltage of the line and bridging periods of power-line black-out. Since 2009 using self-consumption of PV energy is publicly encouraged in Germany, which can be realised by electric storage. This paper develops methods to determine the optimal storage size for grid-connected dwellings with PV panels. From measurements in houses we were able to establish calculation rules for sizing the storage. Two situations for electricity storage are covered: - the storage system is an optimum to cover most of the electricity needs; - it is an optimum for covering the peak power need of a dwelling. After these calculation rules a second step is needed to determine the size of the real battery. The article treats the aspects that should be taken into consideration before buying a specific battery like lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. (author)
Mulder, Grietus; Six, Daan [Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek, Unit Energy Technology, Mol (Belgium); Ridder, Fjo De [Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Belgium)
Prospects for grid-connected solar PV in Kenya
Kenya's electric power system is heavily reliant on hydropower, leaving it vulnerable during recurring droughts. Supply shortfalls are currently met through the use of expensive leased diesel generation. Therefore, plans ...
Rose, Amy Michelle
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems | Department of Energy
Energy.gov (U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)) Indexed Site
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems July 2, 2012 - 8:21pm Addthis When connecting a home energy system to the electric grid, research and consider equipment required as well as your power providerâs requirements and agreements. | Photo courtesy of Solar Design Associates, Inc. When connecting a home energy system to the electric grid, research and consider equipment required as well as your power provider's requirements and agreements. | Photo courtesy of Solar Design Associates, Inc. What are the key facts? While renewable energy systems are capable of powering houses and small businesses without any connection to the electricity grid, many people prefer the advantages that grid-connection offers. Aside from the major small renewable energy system components, you
Four Federal Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems: Powering Our Nation's Capital with Solar
One of the fastest growing markets for photovoltaics (PV) is the urban sector. Municipal planners have discovered that PV systems operate favorably in their urban areas, and can be aesthetically integrated into the urban landscape. The federal government has a long history of using PV in a variety of applications, but until recently few applications have been in urban environments. During the last five years, four grid-connected PV systems have been installed on federally owned or federally leased facilities in the Washington, D.C. area: (1) Earth Day Park, (2) U.S. Department of Energy Headquarters, (3) the Pentagon, and (4) Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Headquarters. This paper reviews these four urban, grid-connected systems-particularly the issues of siting, permitting, and grid interconnection.
Plympton, P.; Kappaz, P.; Kroposki, B.; Stafford, B.; Thornton, J.
Evolutionary programming versus artificial immune system in evolving neural network for grid-connected photovoltaic system output prediction
This paper presents the evolutionary neural networks for the prediction of energy output from a grid-connected photovoltaic (GCPV) system. Two evolutionary neural network (ENN) models have been proposed using evolutionary programming and artificial immune ... Keywords: artificial immune system (AIS) and prediction, artificial neural network (ANN), correlation coefficient (R), evolutionary programming (EP), grid-connected photovoltaic system (GCPV), multi-layer feedforward neural network (MLFNN), photovoltaic (PV)
Shahril Irwan Sulaiman; Titik Khawa Abdul Rahman; Ismail Musirin; Sulaiman Shaari
GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems (Smart Grid
GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems (Smart Grid GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems (Smart Grid Project) Jump to: navigation, search Project Name GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems Country France Coordinates 46.134171°, 1.933594° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":46.134171,"lon":1.933594,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
PVWATTS Version 2 - Enhanced Spatial Resolution for Calculating Grid-Connected PV Performance: Preprint
PVWATTS Version 2 - PVWATTS Version 2 - Enhanced Spatial Resolution for Calculating Grid-Connected PV Performance Preprint October 2001 * NREL/CP-560-30941 B. Marion, M. Anderberg, R. George, P. Gray-Hann, and D. Heimiller To be presented at the NCPV Program Review Meeting Lakewood, Colorado 14-17 October 2001 National Renewable Energy Laboratory 1617 Cole Boulevard Golden, Colorado 80401-3393 NREL is a U.S. Department of Energy Laboratory Operated by Midwest Research Institute * * * * Battelle * * * * Bechtel Contract No. DE-AC36-99-GO10337 NOTICE The submitted manuscript has been offered by an employee of the Midwest Research Institute (MRI), a contractor of the US Government under Contract No. DE-AC36-99GO10337. Accordingly, the US Government and MRI retain a nonexclusive royalty-free license to publish or reproduce the published
Blanc, I., Beloin-Saint-Pierre, D., Payet, J., Jacquin, P., Adra, N., Mayer, D., Espace-PV: key sensitive parameters for environmental impacts of grid-connected PV systems with LCA , In Proceedings of the 23rd
of Philadelphia uses an 85 kW rooftop PV installation. (Mercury Solar Solutions/ PIX 18064) #12;Solar Powering technologies fall into these main categories: photovoltaics (PV), concentrating solar power (CSP), solar water heating (SWH), and solar space heating and cooling.1 PV and CSP technologies produce electricity; SWH
Paris-Sud XI, Université de
Agelidis, �Inverter for Single-Phase Grid Connected Photovoltaic Systems � An Overview,� Power Electron
Abstract- An overview on recent developments and a summary of the state-of-the-art of inverter technology in Europe for single-phase grid-connected Photovoltaic (PV) systems for power levels up to 5 kW is provided in this paper. The information includes details not only on the topologies commercially available but also on the switching devices employed and the associated switching frequencies, efficiency, price trends and market share. Finally, the paper outlines issues associated with the development of relevant international industry standards affecting PV inverter technology. I.
Martina Calais; Johanna Myrzik; Ted Spoone; Vassilios G. Agelidis
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems Case Studies | Open Energy
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems Case Studies Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems Case Studies Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary LAUNCH TOOL Name: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Systems Case Studies Agency/Company /Organization: World Bank Sector: Energy Topics: Market analysis, Co-benefits assessment, Background analysis Resource Type: Lessons learned/best practices, Case studies/examples Website: web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTENERGY2/EXTRENENERGYTK/0,, Country: Uganda, Mexico, Turkey, Germany, Sri Lanka, China Eastern Africa, Central America, Western Asia, Western Europe, Southern Asia, Eastern Asia Coordinates: 1.373333°, 32.290275° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":1.373333,"lon":32.290275,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
PVUSA experience with power conversion for grid-connected photovoltaic systems
The Photovoltaics for Utility Scale Application (PVUSA) project was established to demonstrate photovoltaic (PV) systems in grid-connected utility applications. One of PVUSA`s key objectives is to evaluate the performance, reliability, and cost of the PV balance of system (BOS). Power conditioning units (PCUs) are the interface between the dc PV arrays and the ac utility lines, and have proved to be the most critical element in grid-connected PV systems. There are five different models of PCUs at PVUSA`s Davis and Kerman sites. This report describes the design, testing, performance characteristics, and maintenance history of each of these PCUs. PVUSA required PCUs in the power range 25 kW to 500 kW which could operate automatically and reliably under changing conditions of sunlight and changing conditions on the utility grid. Although a number of manufacturers can provide PCUs in this power range, none of these PCUs have been produced in sufficient quantity to allow refinement of a particular model into the highly reliable unit needed for long-term, unattended operation. Factory tests were useful but limited by the inability to test under full power and changing power conditions. The inability to completely test PCUs at the factory resulted in difficulty during startup, field testing, and subsequent operation. PVUSA has made significant progress in understanding the requirements for PCUs in grid-connected PV applications and improving field performance. This record of PVUSA`s experience with a variety of PCUs is intended to help utilities and their suppliers identify and retain the good performance characteristics of PCUs, and to make improvements where necessary to meet the needs of utilities.
Stolte, W.
Subsystem engineering and development of grid-connected photovoltaic systems
The experience gained in fielding residential and intermediate sized photovoltaic application experiments is summarized. This experience is used to guide the engineering and development of array and power conditioning subsystems for grid-connected photovoltaic systems. A major consideration in this development effort is cost. Through innovative engineering, using a modular building block approach for the array subsystem, it is now possible to construct array fields, in moderate quantities, for about $52/m/sup 2/ excluding the photovoltaic modules. Similarly, results of power conditioning subsystem development indicate a projected cost of about $0.25/W/sub p/ for advanced units with conversion efficiencies in excess of 90%.
Burgess, E.L.; Post, H.N.; Key, T.S.
Designing PV Incentive Programs to Promote System Performance: A Review of Current Practice
PV system components and installations meet minimum industry standards related to safety, reliability, andPV Systems Rated Output Modules Inverters Systems (grid-connected) Product Reliability
Barbose, Galen; Wiser, Ryan; Bolinger, Mark
(Spain) (Spain) Jump to: navigation, search Project Name GROWDERS Demonstration of Grid Connected Electricity Systems Country Spain Coordinates 40.338169°, -3.438721° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":40.338169,"lon":-3.438721,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Multiobjective Particle Swarm Optimization for the optimal design of photovoltaic grid-connected systems
Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is a highly efficient evolutionary optimization algorithm. In this paper a multiobjective optimization algorithm based on PSO applied to the optimal design of photovoltaic grid-connected systems (PVGCSs) is presented. The proposed methodology intends to suggest the optimal number of system devices and the optimal PV module installation details, such that the economic and environmental benefits achieved during the system's operational lifetime period are both maximized. The objective function describing the economic benefit of the proposed optimization process is the lifetime system's total net profit which is calculated according to the method of the Net Present Value (NPV). The second objective function, which corresponds to the environmental benefit, equals to the pollutant gas emissions avoided due to the use of the PVGCS. The optimization's decision variables are the optimal number of the PV modules, the PV modules optimal tilt angle, the optimal placement of the PV modules within the available installation area and the optimal distribution of the PV modules among the DC/AC converters. (author)
Kornelakis, Aris [Technical University of Crete, Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, Chania (Greece)
Sensitivity analysis for optimal sizing of a PV grid connected home G.WARKOZEK S.PLOIX* M.JACOMINO* F.WURTZ
integration of PV in the building...etc. · Energy market data. This information includes energy prices (sell of specified energy market (HSEM): I Sensitivity analysis for optimal sizing of a PV grid connected home G.WARKOZEK S.PLOIX* M.JACOMINO* F
Environmental impacts of large-scale grid-connected ground-mounted PV installations
,6]. They highlighted the photovoltaic potential for a low carbon energy supply and the environmental benefits of PV comparison of energy supply options. 21st European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference. 2006. [8] IEA European Photovoltaic Energy Conference. 2008. [12] D. Beloin-Saint-Pierre, I. Blanc, J. Payet, P. Jacquin
Three-Phase Modular Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel Inverter with Individual MPPT for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems
A three-phase modular cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter for a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system is presented in this paper. To maximize the solar energy extraction of each PV string, an individual maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control scheme is applied, which allows the independent control of each dc-link voltage. PV mismatches may introduce unbalanced power supplied to the three-phase system. To solve this issue, a control scheme with modulation compensation is proposed. The three-phase modular cascaded multilevel inverter prototype has been built. Each H-bridge is connected to a 185 W solar panel. Simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the proposed ideas.
Xiao, Bailu [ORNL; Hang, Lijun [ORNL; Riley, Cameron [University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK); Tolbert, Leon M [ORNL; Ozpineci, Burak [ORNL
Plug and Play Distributed Power Systems for Smart-Grid Connected Building |
Emerging Technologies » Plug and Play Distributed Power Systems Emerging Technologies » Plug and Play Distributed Power Systems for Smart-Grid Connected Building Plug and Play Distributed Power Systems for Smart-Grid Connected Building The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is currently conducting research into plug-and-play distributed power systems for smart- grid connected buildings. Project Description This project seeks to advance and demonstrate a plug-and-play building energy micro-grid concept for integrating energy storage, loads, and sources at the building level with the external utility grid. The micro-grid demonstration is expected to include the following: Diesel synchronous generator Energy storage device Otis regenerative elevator system representing building critical loads Smart interface with the utility grid
Grid-Connected Marine Current Generation System Power Smoothing Control Using Supercapacitors
Grid-Connected Marine Current Generation System Power Smoothing Control Using Supercapacitors to reduce the fluctuation of generator power. In the second step, Supercapacitor (SC) Energy Storage System fluctuation, swell effect, power smoothing control, supercapacitor. I. [NTRODUCTION [n the recent years
Controlling of grid connected photovoltaic lighting system with fuzzy logic
In this study, DC electrical energy produced by photovoltaic panels is converted to AC electrical energy and an indoor area is illuminated using this energy. System is controlled by fuzzy logic algorithm controller designed with 16 rules. Energy is supplied from accumulator which is charged by photovoltaic panels if its energy would be sufficient otherwise it is supplied from grid. During the 1-week usage period at the semester time, 1.968 kWh energy is used from grid but designed system used 0.542 kWh energy from photovoltaic panels at the experiments. Energy saving is determined by calculations and measurements for one education year period (9 months) 70.848 kWh. (author)
Saglam, Safak; Ekren, Nazmi; Erdal, Hasan [Technical Education Faculty, Marmara University, Istanbul 34722 (Turkey)
Grid-connected and control of MPPT for wind power generation systems based on the SCIG
This paper adopts a main circuit structure with back-to-back PWM converter, in which generator-side using direct torque control method, and grid-side adopts three-phase VSR inner current decoupling control based feed forward control algorithms, and this ... Keywords: back-to-back, grid-connected, maximum power point tracking (MPPT), squirrel cage induction generator (SCIG), wind-turbine generation system
Yidong Chen; Yulin Yang; Liqiao Wang; Zhiyun Jia; Weiyang Wu
High Penetration, Grid Connected Photovoltaic Technology Codes and Standards: Preprint
This paper reports the interim status in identifying and reviewing photovoltaic (PV) codes and standards (C&S) and related electrical activities for grid-connected, high-penetration PV systems with a focus on U.S. electric utility distribution grid interconnection.
Basso, T. S.
one year's worth of hourly site & time-specific data including electrical demand PV and off-shore wind is based upon the analysis of one year worth of hourly data 2010 -- including New York City's electrical demand, distributed PV generation, and off- shore wind generation. PV and wind generation data
Perez, Richard R.
Case study: Feasibility analysis of renewable energy supply systems in a small grid connected resort.
??This paper presents a case study on the feasibility of a small grid connected resort in the marine west coast climate of Canada to implement� (more)
Robins, Jody
Performance of a grid connected residential photovoltaic system with energy storage
In 1995, Salt River Project (SRP), a public power utility located in Phoenix, Arizona, collaborated with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and Sandia National Laboratories (Sandia) to initiate a photovoltaic (PV) power system with battery energy storage to match PV output with residential customer peak energy demand periods. The PV power system, a 2.4kW PV array with 25.2kWh of energy storage, was designed and installed by Southwest Technology Development Institute (SWTDI) at an SRP-owned facility, known as the Chandler Research House during August 1995. This paper presents an overview of the system design, operation and performance. 3 refs., 2 figs., 2 tabs.
Palomino, G.E. [SRP, Phoenix, AZ (United States); Wiles, J. [Southwest Technology Development Institute, Las Cruces, NM (United States); Stevens, J. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Goodman, F. [EPRI, Palo Alto, CA (United States)
An economic analysis of grid-connected residential solar photovoltaic power systems
The question of the utility grid-connected residential market for photovoltaics is examined from a user-ownership perspective. The price is calculated at which the user would be economically indifferent between
Carpenter, Paul R.
Grid connected integrated community energy system. Phase II: final stage 2 report. Outline specifications of cogeneration plant; continued
Specifications are presented for the electrical equipment, site preparation, building construction and mechanical systems for a dual-purpose power plant to be located on the University of Minnesota campus. This power plant will supply steam and electrical power to a grid-connected Integrated Community Energy System. (LCL)
Grid connected integrated community energy system. Phase II: final stage 2 report. Preliminary design of cogeneration plant
The preliminary design of a dual-purpose power plant to be located on the University of Minnesota is described. This coal-fired plant will produce steam and electric power for a grid-connected Integrated Community Energy System. (LCL)
Optimal control of a grid-connected hybrid electrical energy storage system for homes
Integrating residential photovoltaic (PV) power generation and electrical energy storage (EES) systems into the Smart Grid is an effective way of utilizing renewable power and reducing the consumption of fossil fuels. This has become a particularly interesting ... Keywords: hybrid electrical energy storage system, optimal control, smart grid
Yanzhi Wang, Xue Lin, Massoud Pedram, Sangyoung Park, Naehyuck Chang
Theoretical efficiency and asymptotic cost of grid-connected photovoltaic systems
Photovoltaics (PV) are regarded as a clean source energy technology and their use has expanded dramatically in recent years for both commercial and residential sectors. Learning curve studies show that PV modules have experienced very rapid reductions ...
Yan Yang; Eric Williams
Utility Grid-Connected Distributed Power Systems National Solar Energy Conference
OF THE PROPOSED REGULATION REPEAL: UCF-8.002 Solar Thermal Collector and PV Module Testing Standards. (1) The Testing and Standards Program shall apply to solar thermal collectors and PV modules submitted for testing thermal collectors or PV modules in Florida. (3) The criteria for testing the performance of solar thermal
Real Power and Reactive Power Control of a Three-Phase Single-Stage-PV System and PV voltage Stability
Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems with power electronic interfaces can provide both real and reactive power to meet power system needs with appropriate control algorithms. This paper presents the control algorithm design for a three-phase single-stage grid-connected PV inverter to achieve either maximum power point tracking (MPPT) or a certain amount of real power injection, as well as the voltage/var control. The switching between MPPT control mode and a certain amount of real power control mode is automatic and seamless. Without the DC-to-DC booster stage, PV DC voltage stability is an important issue in the control design especially when the PV inverter is operating at maximum power point (MPP) with voltage/var control. The PV DC voltage collapse phenomenon and its reason are discussed. The method based on dynamic correction of the PV inverter output is proposed to ensure PV DC voltage stability. Simulation results of the single-stage PV system during system disturbances and fast solar irradiation changes confirm that the proposed control algorithm for single-stage PV inverters can provide appropriate real and reactive power services and ensure PV DC voltage stability during dynamic system operation and atmospheric conditions.
Li, Huijuan [ORNL; Xu, Yan [ORNL; Adhikari, Sarina [ORNL; Rizy, D Tom [ORNL; Li, Fangxing [ORNL; Irminger, Philip [ORNL
A 24-h forecast of solar irradiance using artificial neural network: Application for performance prediction of a grid-connected PV plant at Trieste, Italy
Forecasting of solar irradiance is in general significant for planning the operations of power plants which convert renewable energies into electricity. In particular, the possibility to predict the solar irradiance (up to 24 h or even more) can became - with reference to the Grid Connected Photovoltaic Plants (GCPV) - fundamental in making power dispatching plans and - with reference to stand alone and hybrid systems - also a useful reference for improving the control algorithms of charge controllers. In this paper, a practical method for solar irradiance forecast using artificial neural network (ANN) is presented. The proposed Multilayer Perceptron MLP-model makes it possible to forecast the solar irradiance on a base of 24 h using the present values of the mean daily solar irradiance and air temperature. An experimental database of solar irradiance and air temperature data (from July 1st 2008 to May 23rd 2009 and from November 23rd 2009 to January 24th 2010) has been used. The database has been collected in Trieste (latitude 45 40'N, longitude 13 46'E), Italy. In order to check the generalization capability of the MLP-forecaster, a K-fold cross-validation was carried out. The results indicate that the proposed model performs well, while the correlation coefficient is in the range 98-99% for sunny days and 94-96% for cloudy days. As an application, the comparison between the forecasted one and the energy produced by the GCPV plant installed on the rooftop of the municipality of Trieste shows the goodness of the proposed model. (author)
Mellit, Adel [Department of Electronics, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, LAMEL, Jijel University, Ouled-aissa, P.O. Box 98, Jijel 18000 (Algeria); Pavan, Alessandro Massi [Department of Materials and Natural Resources, University of Trieste Via A. Valerio, 2 - 34127 Trieste (Italy)
Stabilized PV system
DOE Patents (OSTI)
A stabilized PV system comprises an array of photovoltaic (PV) assemblies mounted to a support surface. Each PV assembly comprises a PV module and a support assembly securing the PV module to a position overlying the support surface. The array of modules is circumscribed by a continuous, belt-like perimeter assembly. Cross strapping, extending above, below or through the array, or some combination of above, below and through the array, secures a first position along the perimeter assembly to at least a second position along the perimeter assembly thereby stabilizing the array against wind uplift forces. The first and second positions may be on opposite sides on the array.
Dinwoodie, Thomas L. (Piedmont, CA)
Grid-connected Solar Electric Systems: The Earthscan Expert Handbook for Planning, Design and Installation
Solar electricity or photovoltaics (PV) is the world's fastest growing energy technology. It can be used on a wide variety of scales, from single dwellings to utility-scale solar farms providing power for whole communities. It can be integrated into ...
Geoff Stapleton; Susan Neill
Grid-connected integrated community energy system. Phase II, Stage 1, final report. Conceptual design: pyrolysis and waste management systems
The University of Minnesota is studying and planning a grid-connected integrated community energy system to include disposal of wastes from health centers and utilizing the heat generated. Following initial definition of the 7-county metropolitan region for which the solid waste management system is to be planned, information is then necessary about the nature of the waste generated within this region. Estimates of the quantities generated, generation rates, and properties of the waste to be collected and disposed of are required in order to determine the appropriate size and capacity of the system. These estimates are designated and subsequently referred to as ''system input''. Institutional information is also necessary in designing the planned system, to be compatible with existing institutional operations and procedures, or to offer a minimum amount of problems to the participating institution in the region. Initial considerations of health care institutions generating solid waste within the defined region are made on a comprehensive basis without any attempt to select out or include feasible candidate institutions, or institutional categories. As the study progresses, various criteria are used in selecting potential candidate institutional categories and institutions within the 7-county region as offering the most feasible solid waste system input to be successfully developed into a centralized program; however, it is hoped that such a system if developed could be maintained for the entire 7-county region, and remain comprehensive to the entire health care industry. (MCW)
Not Available
Study of a Family of Buck-Boost Converter with Tapped Inductor for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems
Among the photovoltaic (PV) systems, the ones interconnected to the electric system have presented a greater growth in the developed countries. In order to transform the generated DC energy in AC energy ready to be delivered to a grid, the concept of ... Keywords: Buck boost converter, ac module, tapped inductor
Juan C. Yris; Jorge H. Calleja; Abraham C. Sanchez; Leobardo H. Gonzalez
Investigations of grid-connected wind power system : low voltage ride through and power quality issues.
??This thesis presents an investigation on system architecture, control and analysis of wind turbine generators to improve grid integration performance. First of all, the main� (more)
Zhang, Shao.
Homeowners Guide to Financing a Grid-Connected Solar Electric System (Brochure)
This guide provides an overview of the financing options that may be available to homeowners who are considering installing a solar electric system on their house.
Power Smoothing Control in a Grid-Connected Marine Current Turbine System for Compensating
of generator power. In the second step, Super-capacitor (SC) Energy Storage System (ESS) is added to compensate, supercapacitor. NOMENCLATURE ESS Energy storage system MCT Marine current turbine MPPT Maximum power point tracking PMSG Permanent-magnet synchronous generator SoC State of charge SC Supercapacitor , , Magnitude
Brest, Université de
Control and Protection of Wind Power Plants with VSC-HVDC Connection By Sanjay K Chaudhary. VSC-HVDC cable transmission is a favourable option for a large and remote offshore wind power plant of a potential wind power plant with VSC-HVDC connection to the onshore grid. The test system is modelled
Chaudhary, Sanjay
Grid-Connected Integrated Community Energy System. Phase II: detailed feasibility analysis and preliminary design. Final report, Stage 2
The purpose of this study was to determine the economic and environmental feasibility of a Grid-Connected Integrated Community Energy System (ICES) based on a multifuel (gas, oil, treated solid wastes, and coal) design with which to serve any or all the institutions within the Louisiana Medical Complex in cooperation with the Health Education Authority of Louisiana (HEAL). In this context, a preliminary design is presented which consists of ICES plant description and engineering analyses. This demonstration system is capable of meeting 1982 system demands by providing 10,000 tons of air conditioning and, from a boiler plant with a high-pressure steam capacity of 200,000 lb/h, approximately 125,000 lb/h of 185 psig steam to the HEAL institutions, and at the same time generating up to 7600 kW of electrical power as byproduct energy. The plant will consist of multiple-fuel steam boilers, turbine generator, turbine driven chillers and necessary auxiliaries and ancillary systems. The preliminary design for these systems and for the building to house the central plant systems are presented along with equipment and instrumentation schedules and outline specifications for major components. Costs were updated to reflect revised data. The final preliminary cost estimate includes allowances for contingencies and escalation, as well as cost for the plant site and professional fees. This design is for a facility specifically with coal burning capability, recognizing that it is more capital-intensive than a gas/oil facility. In the opinion of the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the relatively modest allocations made for scrubbing and ash removal involve less than is implied in standard industry (EPRI) cost increments of over 30% for these duties. The preliminary environmental assessment is included. (LCL)
Grid-connected integrated community energy system. Phase II, Stage 2, final report. Executive summary
The University of Minnesota Grid-ICES was divided into four identifiable programs in order to study the feasibility of each of the parts of the ICES independently. The total program involves cogeneration, fuel conversion, fuel substitution, and energy conservation by system change. This Phase II report substantiates the theory that the Basic Grid ICES is not only energy-effective, but it will become cost effective as unit operating costs adjust to supply and demand in the 1980's. The Basic Program involves the cogeneration of steam and electricity. The University of Minnesota has been following an orderly process of converting its Central Heating Plant from gas-oil to 100% coal since 1973. The first step in the transition is complete. The University is presently 100% on coal, and will begin the second step, the test burning of low Btu Western coal during the spring, summer, and fall, and high Btu Eastern coal during the high thermal winter period. The final step to 100% Western coal is planned to be completed by 1980. In conjunction with the final step a retired Northern States Power generating plant has been purchased and is in the process of being retrofitted for topping the existing plant steam output during the winter months. The Basic Plan of ICES involves the add-on work and expense of installing additional boiler capacity at Southeast Steam and non-condensing electric generating capability. This will permit the simultaneous generation of electricity and heat dependent upon the thermal requirements of the heating and cooling system in University buildings. This volume presents an overview of the Community and the ICES. (MCW)
PV System Performance and Standards
This paper presents a brief overview of the status and accomplishments during fiscal year (FY) 2005 of the Photovoltaic (PV) System Performance and Standards Subtask, which is part of the PV Systems Engineering Project (a joint NREL-Sandia project).
Osterwald, C. R.
Direct Use of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Energy
PV-DC refers to the direct use of photovoltaic (PV) energy in an appliance or other equipment without a grid connection. Most (over 90) of the new deployments of PV solar panels connect to the ac electric grid and do not use dc energy directly. These grid-connected PV systems use an electronic inverter to convert the dc array output to ac power for interfacing with the grid. However, with double-digit growth in all types of PV applications, the direct use of solar for powering end-use loads needs to be m...
Novel anti-islanding detection method and maximum power tracking algorithm for grid connected photovoltaic systems with interleaved dc/dc converters
Photovoltaic (PV) energy, which has proven to be environmentally friendly and sustainable compared to traditional energy sources, has gained widespread attention in recent years. The grid-tied PV energy conversion system has become a preferred choice ...
Ahmad Yafaoui
Grid-connected integrated community energy system. Phase II, Stage 2, final report. Preliminary design pyrolysis facility. [Andco-Torrax system
The University of Minnesota is studying and planning a grid connected integrated community energy system to include disposal of wastes from health centers and utilizing the heat generated. The University of Minnesota has purchased the so called Southeast Generating Station from the Northern States Power Company. This plant contains two coal-fired boilers that will be retrofitted to burn low-sulfur Montana coal. Building modifications and additions will be made to support the components of the Andco-Torrax system and integrate the system with the rest of the plant. The Andco-Torrax system is a new high-temperature refuse-conversion process known technically as slagging pyrolysis. Although the pyrolysis of solid waste is a relatively new innovation, pyrolysis processes have been used for years by industry. This report covers the preliminary design and operation of the system. (MCW)
Perspective on International PV Challenge & Opportunities for Rural Development
International market opportunities for the sale and deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems abound and will continue to out-pace domestic, grid-connected opportunities for the foreseeable future.
Taylor, R. W.
Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced...
You are here Home Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Geothermal System Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Geothermal...
which allow for a cheap and reliable check of the power production of grid connected PV systems. These checks are done by calculating the estimated output of the PV system with a simulation-model. The model Utrecht ABSTRACT In this paper, we describe a surveillance procedure for grid connected photovoltaic (PV
Grid Connected Integrated Community Energy System. Volume 1. Summary and demonstration site description. Final report, Phase I, February 1, 1977-May 31, 1977
The University of Minnesota and its partners - St. Mary's and Fairview hospitals, Augsburg College, Northern States Power Company, and possibly some small add-on customers - will develop the feasibility of a Grid-Connected Integrated Community Energy System utilizing cogeneration of electricity as a byproduct of steam in an educational, residential, hospital, and commercial community. An overview of the site is given. The geographical location, spatial data topographical data, and modes of transportation to and from the site are given. Environmental data (geology, surficial geology, regional watershed, trees, building shadows, climatological data, environmental quality data, and the microclimate) are discussed. The open space, outdoor use, and wildlife habitat are assessed. Information on the building sectors includes sector energy density, night time usage, building construction, steam adsorption air conditioning, electric air conditioning, and University Hospital air conditioning. The building sector energy profiles and the special service sectors are described. (MCW)
Soderberg, W.E.; O' Gara, J.C.; Reid, R.A.; Lewis, R.; Ervasti, M.; Pearce, J.
Improving grid reliability through integration of distributed PV and energy storage
Several emerging technologies, namely, high penetration grid-connected distributed photovoltaics (PV), energy storage, and smart grid have seen tremendous growth in recent years. Because of their interconnected nature, the deployed systems are fairly ...
Guohui Yuan
A control system for improved battery utilization in a PV-powered peak-shaving system
Photovoltaic (PV) power systems offer the prospect of allowing a utility company to meet part of the daily peak system load using a renewable resource. Unfortunately, some utilities have peak system- load periods that do not match the peak production hours of a PV system. Adding a battery energy storage system to a grid-connected PV power system will allow dispatching the stored solar energy to the grid at the desired times. Batteries, however, pose system limitations in terms of energy efficiency, maintenance, and cycle life. A new control system has been developed, based on available PV equipment and a data acquisition system, that seeks to minimize the limitations imposed by the battery system while maximizing the use of PV energy. Maintenance requirements for the flooded batteries are reduced, cycle life is maximized, and the battery is operated over an efficient range of states of charge. This paper presents design details and initial performance results on one of the first installed control systems of this type.
Palomino, E [Salt River Project, Phoenix, AZ (United States); Stevens, J. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Wiles, J. [New Mexico State Univ., Las Cruces, NM (United States). Southwest Technology Development Inst.
Common Mode Voltage in case of Transformerless PV Inverters Connected to the Grid
through the parasitic capacitance of the PV panels, can reach very high values. A common-mode model based grid connected PV system with the modeled parasitic capacitances, marked with grey lines, presentCommon Mode Voltage in case of Transformerless PV Inverters Connected to the Grid T. KEREKES* R
Kerekes, Tamas
Development of standardized, low-cost AC PV systems. Phase I annual report, 7 September 1995--7 November 1996
The objectives of this two-year program are to improve the reliability and safety and reduce the cost of installed grid-connected PV systems by creating standardized, pre-engineered components and an enhanced, low-cost, 250-Watt micro inverter. These advances will be combined with the new, large area Solarex MSX-240 PV module resulting in standard, modular AC PV {open_quotes}building blocks{close_quotes} used to create utility-interactive PV systems as small as one module to many thousands of modules to suit virtually any application. AC PV building blocks will be developed to meet the requirements of the U.S., Japanese and European markets.
Strong, S.J.; Wohlgemuth, J.H.; Kaelin, M.
Grid connected integrated community energy system. Phase II: final state 2 report. Preliminary design waste management and institutional analysis
The Preliminary Design of a Regional, Centralized Solid Waste Management System for the Twin Cities Metropolitan Region in Minnesota is presented. The concept has been developed for the sound environmental and safe disposal of solid waste generated from its health care industry, although some additional waste supplements are included as economic assistance in order to approach a competitive alternative to current health care solid waste disposal costs. The system design focuses on a 132 tons per day high-temperature, slagging pyrolysis system manufactured by Andco Incorporated, Andco-Torrax Division Design criteria are given. A Collection and Transportation System (CTS) has been planned for the movements of solid waste (General and Special) from the generating HHC facilities within a 10-mile waste-shed zone, for municipal solid waste from a local transfer station currently processing municipal solid waste, and for pyrolysis residue to final disposal. Each of these facilities is now considered as service contract operations. Approximately 15 vehicle trips per day are estimated as vehicle traffic delivering the refuse to the pyrolysis facility. Cost estimates for the CTS have been determined in conjunction with current municipal refuse haulers in the TCMR, and valued at the following: HHC General Solid Waste (HHC/GSW) at 6.00 $/T; HHC Special Solid Waste (HHC/SSW) at 20.00 $/T; Municipal Transfer at 4.00 to be paid the pyrolysis system as a drop charge. Special box-bag containers are to be required in handling the HHC/SSW at a cost of 30.19 $/T estimate. The total operating cost for the pyrolysis system has been estimated to be 13.73 $/T, with a steam credit of 11.70 $/T, to yield a net cost of 2.03 $/T. Capital cost has been estimated to be 7,700,800 dollars, 1978. A back-up facility capital investment of $163,000 dollars, 1978 has been estimated, which should be applied to the existing University of Minnesota incinerator.
Grid-connected Integrated Community Energy System. Preliminary report, Phase II, August 9--November 8, 1977. [Clark Univ. , Worcester
Clark University in the New England area represents an attractive site for demonstration of cogeneration. In Phase I of the program, the team reported: that the system of choice is a diesel generator sized at about Clark's peak electric demand; it should burn No. 6 fuel oil; the system can run at nearly full capacity the year round, sell 40 percent of its output, and receive backup as needed from Massachusetts Electric Company; the system should deliver a rate of return of 15 to 20 percent; and there appear to be no institutional or environmental problems. An update on a number of issues that were incompletely resolved in the Phase I report is provided. In Section 2 additional documentation on institutional issues involved in the proposed demonstration plant is provided. In Section 3 a preliminary design analysis that clearly defines the choice of engine and provides revised operating data in light of additional load profile studies is provided. In particular, it is found that: a Sulzer No. 6-oil-burning 1405-kW diesel is the system of choice; the engine should be housed in a separate building in close proximity to the existing central boiler and steam distribution points; and as a result of detailed summer load studies, the engine as specified can be operated with higher capacity factors than anticipated in Phase I. In Section 4 a revised cost estimate using information developed in Sections 2 and 3 is given. No significant change in net cash flow was found, and there was an internal rate of return of 15 percent. The overall conclusion is therefore that, though some details have changed, the Clark demonstration project continues to appear highly attractive. (MCW)
Variability of PV on Distribution Systems
In 2010, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) along with several utilities began collecting high-resolution monitoring data on distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems throughout the United States. Included in these monitoring data are single-module PV systems distributed along selected feeders as well as several larger PV systems (up to 1.4 MW). Utilizing data from these sites, this report focuses specifically on examining the measured variability of solar PV distributed throughout a ...
Experiences and Lessons Learned With Residential Photovoltaic Systems
This report documents experiences with 86-grid-connected residential photovoltaic (PV) systems located at three sites. This information is valuable to utilities in planning their use of distributed PV generation.
EERE News: Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected...
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Indexed Site
Subscribe RSS Feeds Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Geothermal System April 12, 2013 Photo of pipelines connected to a geothermal heating plant....
Simulation for Performance Analysis of Grid-Connected Induction Generators with Input Voltage Control
With the increasing application of wind energy, various technologies are developed for analyzing the performance of grid-connected induction generator (GIG) based wind energy conversion systems (WECSs). Input voltage control is one among them. In the ... Keywords: grid-connected induction generators (GIGs), wind energy conversion systems (WECSs), input voltage control, performance analysis, MATLAB
Farhad Ilahi Bakhsh, Shirazul Islam, Sayeed Ahmad
Performance Test Protocol for Evaluating Inverters Used in Grid-Connected
Performance Test Protocol for Evaluating Inverters Used in Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems....................................................................................................................................... 36 A1 Simplified Photovoltaic I-V Curve Model Inverters Used in Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems 1 Overview One measure of the maturity of an industry
Building Energy Software Tools Directory: PV*SOL
PV*SOL PV*SOL PV*SOL logo. PV*SOL Pro is a program for the design and simulation of grid-connected and off-grid photovoltaic systems. You can create your system using a wide range of modules (including thin-film and crystalline) and the program determines the size of the system with the roof layout tool. After testing all the relevant physical parameters, the program automatically selects the inverter and PV array configuration. This dynamic simulation program was developed for engineers, designers, installers, roofing specialists, and electrical contractors or building technicians. Screen Shots Keywords photovoltaic systems simulation, planning and design software, grid-connected systems, stand-alone systems Validation/Testing N/A Expertise Required No special expertise or training needed.
Solar Resource and PV Systems Performance
Solar Resource and PV Systems Performance at Selected Test Sites Prepared for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability Under Cooperative Agreement No. DE-FC26-06NT Subtask 11.1 Deliverables 2 and 4: Report on Solar Resource and PV Systems Performance at Selected Test
Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation...
Other Agencies You are here Home Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation An...
Other Agencies You are here Home Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation Amonix, Inc. Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power...
Jebel Ali Hotel PV lighting systems
A large stand-alone PV lighting project was installed in June 1983 at the Jebel Ali Hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. A high mast lighting system provides illumination for a 130 meter diameter traffic roundabout. The high mast system is powered by a 15 kilowatt peak array of Mobil Solar ribbon PV modules. Along the 700 meter access road leading to the hotel entrance, twenty-one PV powered streetlights provide low-level lighting. Each streetlight consists of a 20 watt fluorescent tube powered by two 35 Wp modules. Operation of both systems is completely automatic. Design, installation, and operating experience to date are reviewed.
Ellis, M.
Overview of PV balance-of-systems technology: Experience and guidelines for utility ties in the United States of America
The U.S. National Photovoltaic Program began in 1975 by supporting the development of terrestrial PV modules and hardware associated with grid-connected PV systems. Early PV-system demonstration programs were also supported and cost shared by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). A wide variety of PV systems were deployed, usually with utility participation. The early demonstration projects provided, and continue to provide, valuable PV system experience to utilities, designers and suppliers. As a result of experience gained, several important milestones in codes and standards pertaining to the design, installation and operation of photovoltaic (PV) systems have been completed. These code and standard activities were conducted through collaboration of participants from all sectors of the PV industry, utilities and the US DOE National Photovoltaic Program. Codes and standards that have been proposed, written, or modified include changes and additions for the 1999 National Electric Code{reg_sign} (NEC{reg_sign}), standards for fire and personnel safety, system testing, field acceptance, component qualification, and utility interconnection. Project authorization requests with the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) have resulted in standards for component qualification and were further adapted for standards used to list PV modules and balance-of-system components. Industry collaboration with Underwriter Laboratories, Inc., with the American Society for Testing and Materials, and through critical input and review for international standards with the International Electrotechnical Commission have resulted in new and revised domestic and international standards for PV applications. Activities related to work on codes and standards through the International Energy Agency are also being supported by the PV industry and the US DOE. The paper shows relationships between activities in standards writing.
Bower, W. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Whitaker, C. [Endecon Engineering, San Ramon, CA (United States)
Utility-Scale Solar Power Converter: Agile Direct Grid Connect Medium Voltage 4.7-13.8 kV Power Converter for PV Applications Utilizing Wide Band Gap Devices
Solar ADEPT Project: Satcon is developing a compact, lightweight power conversion device that is capable of taking utility-scale solar power and outputting it directly into the electric utility grid at distribution voltage levels�eliminating the need for large transformers. Transformers �step up� the voltage of the power that is generated by a solar power system so it can be efficiently transported through transmission lines and eventually �stepped down� to usable voltages before it enters homes and businesses. Power companies step up the voltage because less electricity is lost along transmission lines when the voltage is high and current is low. Satcon�s new power conversion devices will eliminate these heavy transformers and connect a utility-scale solar power system directly to the grid. Satcon�s modular devices are designed to ensure reliability�if one device fails it can be bypassed and the system can continue to run.
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric | Open
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary Name: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric Agency/Company /Organization: United States Agency for International Development Sector: Energy Resource Type: Training materials Website: www.energytoolbox.org/gcre/mod_4/index.shtml Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric Screenshot References: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric[1] Logo: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric GCREhydro.JPG References ↑ "Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Hydroelectric" Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Grid-Connected_Renewable_Energy_Generation_Toolkit-Hydroelectric&oldid=375082
Selective compensation of voltage harmonics in grid-connected microgrids
1 Selective compensation of voltage harmonics in grid-connected microgrids Mehdi Savaghebia , Juan is proposed for selective compensation of main voltage harmonics in a grid- connected microgrid. The aim level. Keywords Distributed Generator (DG); microgrid; grid-connected; voltage harmonics compensation. 1
Vasquez, Juan Carlos
Economics of grid-connected small wind turbines in the domestic market
Exploitation of certain niche markets for small wind turbines is one strategy that could help speed the commercialization of grid-connected small turbines. The authors review the world's turbine manufacturers, the utility grid-connected applications and selected niche markets for grid-connected small wind systems (0.1 to 100 kilowatts). Wind turbine installation and purchase are handled under three different payment scenarios: paid in full up front, paid through a second mortgage, or paid as part of a first mortgage. The authors used a simple payback method to compare these scenarios and analyze the costs and energy produced for three different U.S. small wind turbines. When there is a buy-down program for the small wind turbine combined with other financial factors such as net metering, tax exemptions, and tax credits, a strong market incentive is created for the use of grid-connected small wind turbines.
Forsyth, T.; Tu, P.; Gilbert, J.
Updating Interconnection Screens for PV System Integration
This white paper evaluates the origins and usefulness of the capacity penetration screen, offer short-term solutions which could effectively allow fast-track interconnection to many PV system applications, and considers longer-term solutions for increasing PV deployment levels in a safe and reliable manner while reducing or eliminating the emphasis on the penetration screen. Short-term and longer-term alternatives approaches are offered as examples; however, specific modifications to screening procedures should be discussed with stakeholders and must ultimately be adopted by state and federal regulatory bodies.
Coddington, M.; Mather, B.; Kroposki, B.; Lynn, K.; Razon, A.; Ellis, A.; Hill, R.; Key, T.; Nicole, K.; Smith, J.
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS PROGRAMME Pico Solar PV Systems for Remote
A new generation of small PV systems for lighting and communication Report IEA-PVPS T9-12:2012INTERNATIONAL ENERGY AGENCY
unknown authors
Trenton ICES: demonstration of a grid-connected integrated community energy system. Phase II. Volumes 1 and 2. Preliminary design of ICES system and analysis of community ownership
Preliminary design and evaluation for the system has been carried out. The findings of this study are: (1) it is technically feasible, utilizing commercially available hardware; (2) under utility ownership and operation, it will not be economically competitive with conventional alternatives for heating and cooling buildings (analysis contained in companion report under separate cover); (3) under utility ownership and operation, no restrictions have been identified that would prevent the project from proceeding; (4) under community ownership, preliminary analysis indicates that thermal energy produced by Trenton ICES will be approximately 12 percent less expensive than thermal energy produced by oil-fired boilers; and (5) a review and update of institutional analyses performed during Phase 2 has identified no factors that would preclude community ownership and operation of the Trenton ICES. The background data produced for the analysis of the Trenton ICES based on utility ownership and operation can, in large part, be used as the bases for a detailed analysis of community ownership.
Distribution System Analysis Tools for Studying High Penetration of PV
Distribution System Analysis Tools for Studying High Penetration of PV with Grid Support Features Electric Energy System #12;#12;Distribution System Analysis Tools for Studying High Penetration of PV project titled "Distribution System Analysis Tools for Studying High Penetration of PV with Grid Support
NREL PV System Performance and Standards Technical Progress
This paper presents a brief overview of the status and accomplishments during Fiscal Year (FY)2004 of the Photovoltaic (PV) System Performance & Standards Subtask, which is part of PV Systems Engineering Project (a joint NREL-Sandia project).
Understanding the Benefits of Dispersed Grid-Connected Photovoltaics: From Avoiding the Next Major Outage to Taming Wholesale Power Markets
Thanks to new solar resource assessment techniques using cloud cover data available from geostationary satellites, it is apparent that grid-connected PV installations can serve to enhance electric grid reliability, preventing or hastening recovery from major power outages and serving to mitigate extreme price spikes in wholesale energy markets. (author)
Letendre, Steven E.; Perez, Richard
Modeling Grid-Connected Hybrid Electric Vehicles Using ADVISOR
Presents an electric utility grid-connected energy management strategy for a parallel hybrid electric vehicle using ADVISOR, a modeling tool.
Markel, T.; Wipke, K.
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Geothermal...
for International Development Sector: Energy Focus Area: Geothermal Resource Type: Training materials Website: www.energytoolbox.orggcremod3index.shtml Grid-Connected...
The Effect of PV Array Size and Battery Size on the Economics of PV/Diesel/Battery Hybrid RAPS Systems
The Effect of PV Array Size and Battery Size on the Economics of PV/Diesel/Battery Hybrid RAPS WA 6150 Abstract This paper focuses on pv/diesel/battery hybrid RAPS systems meeting loads above 50 kWh per day. The effect of varying the size of the pv array and the battery bank in such systems on both
Do PV Systems Increase Residential Selling Prices If So, How Can Practitioners Estimate This Increase?
and federal policymakers. Solar PV investments are sizable,investment in PV and thereby slow solar deployment. Statenew home solar homes, the been sufficient to the PV systems.
Hoen, Ben
Grid-connected integrated community energy system. Phase II, Stage 1, final report. Conceptual design, demand and fuel projections and cost analysis
The Phase I Report, Grid ICES, presented the broad alternatives and implications for development of an energy system satisfying thermal demand with the co-generation of electric power, all predicated on the use of solid fuels. Participants of the system are the University of Minnesota, operator and primary thermal user, and Northern States Power Company, primary electrical user; with St. Mary's Hospital, Fairview Hospital, and Augsburg College as Add-on Customers for the thermal service (Option I). Included for consideration are the Options of (II) solid waste disposal by the Pyrolysis Method, with heat recovery, and (III) conversion of a portion of the thermal system from steam to hot water distribution to increase co-generation capability and as a demonstration system for future expansion. This report presents the conceptual design of the energy system and each Option, with the economic implications identified so that selection of the final system can be made. Draft outline of the Environmental Assessment for the project is submitted as a separate report.
Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Geothermal
Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Geothermal System Nevada Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Enhanced Geothermal System April 12, 2013 - 12:00pm Addthis WASHINGTON -- As part of the Obama Administration's all-of-the-above energy strategy, the Energy Department today recognized the nation's first commercial enhanced geothermal system (EGS) project to supply electricity to the grid. Based in Churchill County, Nevada, Ormat Technologies' Desert Peak 2 EGS project has increased power output of its nearby operating geothermal field by nearly 38 percent - providing an additional 1.7 megawatts of power to the grid and validating this emerging clean energy technology. "Developing America's vast renewable energy resources sustainably is an
Performance model for grid-connected photovoltaic inverters.
This document provides an empirically based performance model for grid-connected photovoltaic inverters used for system performance (energy) modeling and for continuous monitoring of inverter performance during system operation. The versatility and accuracy of the model were validated for a variety of both residential and commercial size inverters. Default parameters for the model can be obtained from manufacturers specification sheets, and the accuracy of the model can be further refined using measurements from either well-instrumented field measurements in operational systems or using detailed measurements from a recognized testing laboratory. An initial database of inverter performance parameters was developed based on measurements conducted at Sandia National Laboratories and at laboratories supporting the solar programs of the California Energy Commission.
Boyson, William Earl; Galbraith, Gary M.; King, David L.; Gonzalez, Sigifredo
Power Systems Engineering Research Center Modeling, Analysis and Deployment of High PV
and about 125 rooftop residential PV systems and two large scale PV systems. The total installed PV capacity electronics and grid integration of renew- able resources mainly solar PV and wind. Dr. Ayyanar received
Van Veen, Barry D.
Commercialization of PV-powered pumping systems for use in utility PV service programs. Final report
The project described in this report was a commercialization effort focused on cost-effective remote water pumping systems for use in utility-based photovoltaic (PV) service programs. The project combined a commercialization strategy tailored specifically for electric utilities with the development of a PV-powered pumping system that operates conventional ac pumps rather than relying on the more expensive and less reliable PV pumps on the market. By combining these two attributes, a project goal was established of creating sustained utility purchases of 250 PV-powered water pumping systems per year. The results of each of these tasks are presented in two parts contained in this Final Summary Report. The first part summarizes the results of the Photovoltaic Services Network (PSN) as a new business venture, while the second part summarizes the results of the Golden Photon system installations. Specifically, results and photographs from each of the system installations are presented in this latter part.
PV-TONS: A photovoltaic technology ontology system for the design of PV-systems
The impacts of climate change, the increasing demand for energy and the diminishing fossil fuel resources have resulted in the development and use of a large number of renewable energy technologies in building development. These technologies are generating ... Keywords: Climate change, Ontology, PV-system, Renewable energy, Semantic Web
F. H. Abanda; J. H. M. Tah; D. Duce
Original Articles: Universal wind turbine working in grid-connected and island operating modes
In the future power system based on active distribution grid, allowing some portion to be disconnected, the concept of universal wind turbine systems may arise. This concept covers both grid-connected and island operations. This may happen if the voltage ... Keywords: Distributed generation, Droop control, Resynchronization, Wind power
Mario Rizo, Marco Liserre, Emilio Bueno, Francisco J. Rodr�Guez, Francisco Huerta
Instrumentation for Evaluating PV System Performance Losses from Snow: Preprint
Describes the use of a pyranometer with a heater and a digital camera to determine losses related to snow for PV systems located at National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Marion, B.; Rodriguez, J.; Pruett, J.
Training on PV Systems: Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance |
Training on PV Systems: Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance Training on PV Systems: Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary LAUNCH TOOL Name: Training on PV Systems: Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance Agency/Company /Organization: Leonardo Energy Sector: Energy Focus Area: Renewable Energy, Solar Website: www.leonardo-energy.org/node/5948 Training on PV Systems: Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance Screenshot References: PV Training [1] Overview "A free series of six webinars will be delivered to provide the required knowledge to design a high performance photovoltaic (PV) installation, entering into economic evaluation and project cash-flow. Additionally, very practical aspects such as the construction, start-up, quality management and testing will be reviewed. Plant operation is described in detail, with
Testing to Support Improvements to PV Components and Systems
The National Photovoltaic (PV) Program is sponsored by the US Department of Energy and includes a PV Manufacturing Research and Development (R and D) project conducted with industry. This project includes advancements in PV components to improve reliability, reduce costs, and develop integrated PV systems. Participants submit prototypes, pre-production hardware products, and examples of the resulting final products for a range of tests conducted at several national laboratories, independent testing laboratories, and recognized listing agencies. The purpose of this testing is to use the results to assist industry in determining a product's performance and reliability, and to identify areas for potential improvement. This paper briefly describes the PV Manufacturing R and D project, participants in the area of PV systems, balance of systems, and components, and several examples of the different types of product and performance testing used to support and confirm product performance.
Ukiah Utilities - PV Buydown Program | Department of Energy
Ukiah Utilities - PV Buydown Program Ukiah Utilities - PV Buydown Program Ukiah Utilities - PV Buydown Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: 7,000; Commercial: 20,000 Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Incentive Rate for systems installed between 7/1/12 and 6/30/13: $1.40/watt AC; incentive may be reduced based on expected performance Provider City of Ukiah Through Ukiah Utilities' PV Buydown Program, residential and commercial customers are eligible for a $1.40-per-watt AC rebate on qualifying grid-connected PV systems up to a maximum system size of 1 MW. In keeping with SB1, the incentive level will decrease annually on July 1 over the 10 year life of the program. Rebates are available on a first come, first
Long-Term Performance of the SERF PV Systems
This paper provides the changes in performance ratings of two photovoltaic (PV) systems located on the roof of the Solar Energy Research Facility (SERF) building at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. For the period of May 1994 to April 2002, the performance rating of the two PV systems decreased at the rate of 1% per year. Most of the changes in performance rating are attributed to changes in the performance of the PV arrays. But about a fifth of the observed changes were from the inverter not tracking the peak-power as effectively as the PV arrays aged.
Marion, B.; Adelstein, J.
Development of a dispatchable PV peak shaving system. Final report on PV:BONUS Phase 2 activities
In July 1993, the Delmarva Power and Light Company (now Conectiv, Inc.) was awarded a contract for the development of a Dispatchable Photovoltaic Peak Shaving System under the US Department of Energy PV:BONUS Program. The rationale for the dispatchable PV peak shaving system is based on the coincidence between the solar resource and the electrical load in question. Where poor coincidence exists, a PV array by itself does little to offset peak demands. However, with the addition of a relatively small amount of energy storage, the energy from the PV array can be managed and the value of the PV system increases substantially. In Phase 2, Delmarva Power continued the refinement of the system deployed in Phase 1. Four additional dispatchable PV peak shaving systems were installed for extended testing and evaluation at sites in Delaware, Maryland, Wisconsin and North Carolina. A second type of system that can be used to provide back-up power as well as peak shaving was also developed in Phase 2. This PV-UPS system used a packaging approach nearly identical to the PV peak shaving system, although there were significant differences in the design of the power electronics and control systems. Conceptually, the PV-UPS system builds upon the idea of adding value to PV systems by increasing functionality. A prototype of the PV-UPS system was installed in Delaware for evaluation near the end of the contract period.
Ferguson, W.D. [Conectiv, Inc., Wilmington, DE (United States); Nigro, R.M. [Applied Energy Group, Inc., Hauppauge, NY (United States)
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar-Electric (PV) System Rebate Program
Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar-Electric (PV) System Rebate Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar-Electric (PV) System Rebate Program Gainesville Regional Utilities - Solar-Electric (PV) System Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate $5,000 Program Info Start Date 10/1/2010 State Florida Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Solar window of 80% or more: $1.00/watt Provider Gainesville Regional Utilities '''''NOTE: Application targets for fiscal year 2013 have been met for the GRU Solar PV Rebate Program. The next round of applications are scheduled to open on October 1, 2013 pending approval of the GRU budget by the Gainesville City Commission.''''' Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) offers its customers a rebate to install photovoltaic (PV) systems. Systems with solar windows of 80% or
of the Effects of Photovoltaic Energy Systems on Residentialmarginal impacts of photovoltaic (PV) energy systems on homeThe market for photovoltaic (PV) energy systems is expanding
Codes, standards, and PV power systems. A 1996 status report
As photovoltaic (PV) electrical power systems gain increasing acceptance for both off-grid and utility-interactive applications, the safety, durability, and performance of these systems gains in importance. Local and state jurisdictions in many areas of the country require that all electrical power systems be installed in compliance with the requirements of the National Electrical Code{reg_sign} (NEC{reg_sign}). Utilities and governmental agencies are now requiring that PV installations and components also meet a number of Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) standards. PV installers are working more closely with licensed electricians and electrical contractors who are familiar with existing local codes and installation practices. PV manufacturers, utilities, balance of systems manufacturers, and standards representatives have come together to address safety and code related issues for future PV installations. This paper addresses why compliance with the accepted codes and standards is needed and how it is being achieved.
Wiles, J
City of Healdsburg - PV Incentive Program | Department of Energy
Healdsburg - PV Incentive Program Healdsburg - PV Incentive Program City of Healdsburg - PV Incentive Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: $3,280 Commercial: $15,600 Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Residential: $0.82/watt AC Commercial: $0.78/watt AC Provider City of Healdsburg Through the City of Healdsburg's PV Buy-down Program, residential and commercial customers are eligible for rebate on qualifying grid-connected PV systems. In keeping with SB1, (the California Solar Initiative mandating that utilities put into place programs to assure that 3000 megawatts (MW) of solar installations on homes is in place within 10 years) the incentive level will decrease annually over the 10 year life of the program. The
Exact Sizing of Battery Capacity for Photovoltaic Systems
Exact Sizing of Battery Capacity for Photovoltaic Systems Yu Rua , Jan Kleisslb , Sonia Martinezb a study battery sizing for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems. In our setting, PV generated, it is stored in a battery (as long as the battery is not fully charged), which has a fixed maximum charging
Interconnecting PV on New York City's Secondary Network Distribution System
This study describes technical assistance provided by NREL to help New York City and Con Edison improve the interconnection of distributed PV systems on a secondary network distribution system.
Anderson, K.; Coddington, M.; Burman, K.; Hayter, S.; Kroposki, B.; Watson, A.
Characterizing Shading Losses on Partially Shaded PV Systems (Presentation)
Presentation on shaded PV power loss, practical issues with modeling shaded PV, and methods of implementing partially shaded PV modeling.
Deline, C.
Transatlantic Workshop on Electric Vehicles and Grid Connectivity |
Transatlantic Workshop on Electric Vehicles and Grid Connectivity Transatlantic Workshop on Electric Vehicles and Grid Connectivity Transatlantic Workshop on Electric Vehicles and Grid Connectivity November 17, 2010 - 2:33pm Addthis On November 17, 2010, the United States and the European Union, under the auspices of the U.S.-EU Energy Council, invited equipment suppliers and manufacturers, utilities, policymakers, standards organizations, and government agencies to discuss mutually beneficial near-term actions to accelerate the introduction of electric vehicles to the market - with a particular focus on government policy and cooperative efforts to spur vehicle demonstration and deployment. For more information about the workshop, including participant presentations, click here. Addthis Related Articles Obama Administration Launches Competition for Three New Manufacturing
Grid-Connected Renewables Program | Department of Energy
Grid-Connected Renewables Program Grid-Connected Renewables Program Grid-Connected Renewables Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Industrial Institutional Local Government Nonprofit Schools State Government Savings Category Bioenergy Wind Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Not specified Program Info Funding Source New Jersey Societal Benefits Charge (public benefits fund) State New Jersey Program Type Performance-Based Incentive Rebate Amount Varies by project; solicitation lists recommended incentive levels 10-20% may be requested as an up-front grant Provider State of New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Note: The deadline for the most recent solicitation has passed and the information in this summary is specific to this closed program solicitation. The New Jersey Office of Clean Energy 2013-2014 Budget
SMUD - PV Residential Retrofit Buy-Down | Department of Energy
PV Residential Retrofit Buy-Down PV Residential Retrofit Buy-Down SMUD - PV Residential Retrofit Buy-Down < Back Eligibility Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate No maximum limit Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount $0.20/watt AC. Incentive is adjusted based on expected performance. The incentive can be paid directly to the customer or to the installer. Provider Sacramento Municipal Utility District SMUD offers an incentive of $0.20 per watt (W) AC to residential customers who install grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems. Customers do not have to contract directly with SMUD-approved contractors for the purchase and installation of the system, however this is recommended. All systems must be permitted and installed by B, C-10, or C-46 contractors. The incentive
Blocking diodes and fuses in low-voltage PV systems
Instructions and labels supplied with listed PV modules and the requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC) dictate that a series fuse shall be used to protect the module against backfeed currents. Few of the hundreds of thousands of low-voltage (12, 24, and 48-volt) stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) power systems use series fuses on each module or string of modules. Tests and simulations at the Southwest Technology Development Institute (TDI) and at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) have established that the absence of these fuses can pose significant fire and safety hazards even on 12-volt PV systems. If the system has sufficient backfeed voltage and current, it is possible that a ground fault in the wiring or inside a module can result in the destruction of a PV module.
Wiles, J.C. [New Mexico State Univ., Las Cruces, NM (United States). Southwest Technology Development Inst.; King, D.L. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States). Photovoltaic Systems R and D
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has teamed with cities across the country through the Solar America Cities (SAC) partnership program to help reduce barriers and accelerate implementation of solar energy. The New York City SAC team is a partnership between the City University of New York (CUNY), the New York City Mayor s Office of Long-term Planning and Sustainability, and the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC).The New York City SAC team is working with DOE s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Con Edison, the local utility, to develop a roadmap for photovoltaic (PV) installations in the five boroughs. The city set a goal to increase its installed PV capacity from1.1 MW in 2005 to 8.1 MW by 2015 (the maximum allowed in 2005). A key barrier to reaching this goal, however, is the complexity of the interconnection process with the local utility. Unique challenges are associated with connecting distributed PV systems to secondary network distribution systems (simplified to �?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?networks�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�? in this report). Although most areas of the country use simpler radial distribution systems to distribute electricity, larger metropolitan areas like New York City typically use networks to increase reliability in large load centers. Unlike the radial distribution system, where each customer receives power through a single line, a network uses a grid of interconnected lines to deliver power to each customer through several parallel circuits and sources. This redundancy improves reliability, but it also requires more complicated coordination and protection schemes that can be disrupted by energy exported from distributed PV systems. Currently, Con Edison studies each potential PV system in New York City to evaluate the system s impact on the network, but this is time consuming for utility engineers and may delay the customer s project or add cost for larger installations. City leaders would like to streamline this process to facilitate faster, simpler, and less expensive distributed PV system interconnections. To assess ways to improve the interconnection process, NREL conducted a four-part study with support from DOE. The NREL team then compiled the final reports from each study into this report. In Section 1�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?PV Deployment Analysis for New York City�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?we analyze the technical potential for rooftop PV systems in the city. This analysis evaluates potential PV power production in ten Con Edison networks of various locations and building densities (ranging from high density apartments to lower density single family homes). Next, we compare the potential power production to network loads to determine where and when PV generation is most likely to exceed network load and disrupt network protection schemes. The results of this analysis may assist Con Edison in evaluating future PV interconnection applications and in planning future network protection system upgrades. This analysis may also assist other utilities interconnecting PV systems to networks by defining a method for assessing the technical potential of PV in the network and its impact on network loads. Section 2�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?A Briefing for Policy Makers on Connecting PV to a Network Grid�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?presents an overview intended for nontechnical stakeholders. This section describes the issues associated with interconnecting PV systems to networks, along with possible solutions. Section 3�?�?�?¢�?�?�?�?�?�?�?�?Technical Review of Concerns and Solutions to PV Interconnection in New Y
K. Anderson; M. Coddington; K. Burman; S. Hayter; B. Kroposki; and A. Watson
Assessing the Reliability and Economics of Wide-Scale Grid-Connected
Assessing the Reliability and Economics of Wide-Scale Grid-Connected Assessing the Reliability and Economics of Wide-Scale Grid-Connected Distributed Energy Generation with Application to Electric Power Systems Under Stress Speaker(s): Hisham Zerriffi Date: November 13, 2003 - 12:00pm Location: Bldg. 90 Seminar Host/Point of Contact: Kristina LaCommare Electric power systems can be disrupted due to a variety of stress circumstances. These can range from constraints on the physical infrastructure as a result of under-capacity problems to deliberate attacks in times of conflict. Stress conditions can manifest themselves in a variety of ways and determining both the nature of the stress and the best mathematical representation of that stress in the model is complicated. This talk details a quantitative comparison of the reliability of an
NREL PV Projects - FUPWG Meeting: "Going Coastal for Energy Efficiency"
PV Projects PV Projects FUPWG Meeting: "Going Costal for Energy Efficiency" Bob Westby, NREL FEMP Program Manager and Sustainable NREL Lead April 14-16, 2008 Contents * Mesa Top PV project - CO/utility incentive program - Deal structure/agreements * NREL Phase II proposed projects * Proposal evaluation considerations * Evaluation tools Mesa Top PV Project Mesa Top PV Project * 750 kWdc (1,200,000 kWh) one-axis tracking PV system - Grid connected (NREL "side of the meter") - Milestones Agreements: January 2008 Operation: August 2008 Solar Rewards Program * CO statute requires solar resource acquisitions by IOU of 20% renewables by 2020 (4% solar "carve out") * Xcel acquisitions made through RFP (bid) process - Selection based on SO-REC* price
High Penetration PV Deployment in the Arizona Public Service System
In an effort to better understand the impacts of high penetrations of photovoltaic (PV) generators on distribution systems, Arizona Public Service (APS) and its partners have begun work on a multi-year project to develop the tools and knowledgebase needed to safely and reliably integrate high penetrations of utility and residential scale PV. Building upon the APS Community Power Project - Flagstaff Pilot, this project will analyze the impact of PV on a representative feeder in northeast Flagstaff. To quantify and catalog the effects of the estimated 1.5 MW of PV that will be installed on the feeder (both smaller units at homes as well as large, centrally located systems), high-speed weather and electrical data acquisition systems and digital 'smart' meters are being designed and installed to facilitate monitoring and to build and validate comprehensive, high-resolution models of the distribution system. These models will be used to analyze the impacts of the PV on distribution circuit protection systems (including anti-islanding), predict voltage regulation and phase balance issues, and develop volt/var control schemes. The goal of this paper is to provide insight and lessons learned on the early stages of high penetration PV deployment. Primarily focusing on modeling and data acquisition, this paper describes the overall project, early results, and plans for future phases of the project.
Narang, D.; Hambrick, J.
ELEG620: Solar Electric Systems University of Delaware, ECE Spring 2008 C. Honsberg PV System Components
· Batteries required if (1) load profile solar radiation profile and (2) to mitigate effect of variability · PV System components: PV Modules Batteries Power Conditioning Loads Balance of systems #12
Honsberg, Christiana
EPRI-DOE Handbook Supplement of Energy Storage for Grid Connected Wind Generation Applications
To date, the use of energy storage systems to optimize wind power generation has been limited to small, off-grid rural or village power applications plus a few technology demonstration-scale battery storage projects for grid connected applications. However, recent developments in advanced energy storage technologies and other technical, economic, and social factors suggest a promising future for such energy storage applications. This Handbook Supplement provides an objective information resource on the l...
Instrumentation for Evaluating PV System Performance Losses from Snow
When designing a photovoltaic (PV) system for northern climates, the prospective installation should be evaluated with respect to the potentially detrimental effects of snow preventing solar radiation from reaching the PV cells. The extent to which snow impacts performance is difficult to determine because snow events also increase the uncertainty of the solar radiation measurement, and the presence of snow needs to be distinguished from other events that can affect performance. This paper describes two instruments useful for evaluating PV system performance losses from the presence of snow: (1) a pyranometer with a heater to prevent buildup of ice and snow, and (2) a digital camera for remote retrieval of images to determine the presence of snow on the PV array.
A Monolithic Microconcentrator Receiver For A Hybrid PV?Thermal System: Preliminary Performance
An innovative hybrid PV?thermal microconcentrator (MCT) system is being jointly developed by Chromasun Inc.
D. Walter; V. Everett; M. Vivar; J. Harvey; R. Van Scheppingen; S. Surve; J. Muric?Nesic; A. Blakers
Massachusetts Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System |
Massachusetts Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System Massachusetts Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System Massachusetts Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System August 13, 2010 - 11:00am Addthis New 26 kW solar energy system to be part of curriculum at Norton Middle School. | Photo courtesy of Norton Public Schools New 26 kW solar energy system to be part of curriculum at Norton Middle School. | Photo courtesy of Norton Public Schools Lindsay Gsell What are the key facts? Using Recovery Act Funding, Norton Middle School installed a 126 panel solar system. The school expects to save $6,000 in energy costs each year. Materials for solar system came from local Massachusetts companies. When the school buses pull up to Norton Middle School this year, students will see more than just their friends and teachers, they'll get a view of
Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System Massachusetts Middle School Goes Local for PV Solar Energy System August 13, 2010 - 11:00am Addthis New 26 kW solar energy system to be part of curriculum at Norton Middle School. | Photo courtesy of Norton Public Schools New 26 kW solar energy system to be part of curriculum at Norton Middle School. | Photo courtesy of Norton Public Schools Lindsay Gsell What are the key facts? Using Recovery Act Funding, Norton Middle School installed a 126 panel solar system. The school expects to save $6,000 in energy costs each year. Materials for solar system came from local Massachusetts companies. When the school buses pull up to Norton Middle School this year, students will see more than just their friends and teachers, they'll get a view of
A standardized approach to PV system performance model validation.
PV performance models are used to predict how much energy a PV system will produce at a given location and subject to prescribed weather conditions. These models are commonly used by project developers to choose between module technologies and array designs (e.g., fixed tilt vs. tracking) for a given site or to choose between different geographic locations, and are used by the financial community to establish project viability. Available models can differ significantly in their underlying mathematical formulations and assumptions and in the options available to the analyst for setting up a simulation. Some models lack complete documentation and transparency, which can result in confusion on how to properly set up, run, and document a simulation. Furthermore, the quality and associated uncertainty of the available data upon which these models rely (e.g., irradiance, module parameters, etc.) is often quite variable and frequently undefined. For these reasons, many project developers and other industry users of these simulation tools have expressed concerns related to the confidence they place in PV performance model results. To address this problem, we propose a standardized method for the validation of PV system-level performance models and a set of guidelines for setting up these models and reporting results. This paper describes the basic elements for a standardized model validation process adapted especially for PV performance models, suggests a framework to implement the process, and presents an example of its application to a number of available PV performance models.
Stein, Joshua S.; Jester, Terry (Hudson Clean Energy Partners); Posbic, Jean (BP Solar); Kimber, Adrianne (First Solar); Cameron, Christopher P.; Bourne, Benjamin (SunPower Corporation)
Ota City : characterizing output variability from 553 homes with residential PV systems on a distribution feeder.
This report describes in-depth analysis of photovoltaic (PV) output variability in a high-penetration residential PV installation in the Pal Town neighborhood of Ota City, Japan. Pal Town is a unique test bed of high-penetration PV deployment. A total of 553 homes (approximately 80% of the neighborhood) have grid-connected PV totaling over 2 MW, and all are on a common distribution line. Power output at each house and irradiance at several locations were measured once per second in 2006 and 2007. Analysis of the Ota City data allowed for detailed characterization of distributed PV output variability and a better understanding of how variability scales spatially and temporally. For a highly variable test day, extreme power ramp rates (defined as the 99th percentile) were found to initially decrease with an increase in the number of houses at all timescales, but the reduction became negligible after a certain number of houses. Wavelet analysis resolved the variability reduction due to geographic diversity at various timescales, and the effect of geographic smoothing was found to be much more significant at shorter timescales.
Stein, Joshua S.; Miyamoto, Yusuke (Kandenko, Ibaraki, Japan); Nakashima, Eichi (Kandenko, Ibaraki, Japan); Lave, Matthew
Economic analysis of PV hybrid power system: Pinnacles National Monument
PV hybrid electric power systems can offer an economically competitive alternative to engine generator (genset) systems in many off-grid applications. Besides the obvious `green` advantages of producing less noise and emissions, the PV hybrid can, in some cases, offer a lower life-cycle cost (LCC) then the genset. This paper evaluates the LCC of the 9.6 kWp PV hybrid power system installed by the National Park Services (NPS) at Pinnacles National Monument, CA. NPS motivation for installation of this hybrid was not based on economics, but rather the need to replace two aging diesel gensets with an alternative that would be quieter, fuel efficient, and more in keeping with new NPS emphasis on sustainable design and operations. In fact, economic analysis shows a lower 20-year LCC for the installed PV hybrid than for simple replacement of the two gensets. The analysis projects are net savings by the PV hybrid system of $83,561 and over 162,000 gallons of propane when compared with the genset-only system. This net savings is independent of the costs associated with environmental emissions. The effects of including emissions costs, according to NPS guidelines, is also discussed. 5 refs., 2 figs., 3 tabs.
Rosenthal, A.; Durand, S. [Southwest Technology Development Institute, Las Cruces, NM (United States); Thomas, M.; Post, H. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Biomass | Open Energy
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Biomass Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Biomass Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary LAUNCH TOOL Name: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Biomass Agency/Company /Organization: United States Agency for International Development Sector: Energy Focus Area: Biomass Resource Type: Training materials Website: www.energytoolbox.org/gcre/mod_2/index.shtml#update Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Biomass Screenshot References: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy-Biomass[1] Logo: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Biomass Biomass Toolkit References ↑ "Grid-Connected Renewable Energy-Biomass" Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Grid-Connected_Renewable_Energy_Generation_Toolkit-Biomass&oldid=375080
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind | Open Energy
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary Name: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind Agency/Company /Organization: United States Agency for International Development Sector: Energy Focus Area: Wind Resource Type: Training materials Website: www.energytoolbox.org/gcre/mod_6/index.shtml Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind Screenshot References: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind[1] Logo: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind GCREwind.JPG References ↑ "Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Wind" Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Grid-Connected_Renewable_Energy_Generation_Toolkit-Wind&oldid=375084"
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar | Open Energy
Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary Name: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar Agency/Company /Organization: United States Agency for International Development Sector: Energy Focus Area: Solar Resource Type: Training materials Website: www.energytoolbox.org/gcre/mod_5/index.shtml Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar Screenshot References: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar[1] Logo: Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar GCREsolar.JPG References ↑ "Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Generation Toolkit-Solar" Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Grid-Connected_Renewable_Energy_Generation_Toolkit-Solar&oldid=375083
Solar Photovoltaic System Operations and Maintenance
Grid-connected flat plate solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are being deployed at an accelerating rate worldwide. Representing a growing absolute share of both independent power producer (IPP) and utility generation portfolios, these PV assets are now commanding a greater level of attention to ensure their optimal availability and performance. Contrary to popular belief, PV power plants are not maintenance free; in fact, they require a steady diet of scheduled preventive maintenance and unscheduled service...
Incorporating Aggregated PV Systems into the Power Grid | Open Energy
Incorporating Aggregated PV Systems into the Power Grid Incorporating Aggregated PV Systems into the Power Grid Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary LAUNCH TOOL Name: Spain Installed Wind Capacity Website Focus Area: Renewable Energy Topics: Market Analysis Website: www.gwec.net/index.php?id=131 Equivalent URI: cleanenergysolutions.org/content/spain-installed-wind-capacity-website Language: English Policies: Regulations Regulations: Feed-in Tariffs This website presents an overview of total installed wind energy capacity in Spain per year from 2000 to 2010. The page also presents the main market developments from 2010; a policy summary; a discussion of the revision in feed-in tariffs in 2010; and a future market outlook. References Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Incorporating_Aggregated_PV_Systems_into_the_Power_Grid&oldid=514463
Keywords: Photovoltaic System, fault-tolerance, recon-figurable PV panel
1 Keywords: Photovoltaic System, fault-tolerance, recon- figurable PV panel Photovoltaic (PV plants, and satellites. The output power of a PV cell (also called solar cell) is dependent on the solar irradiance level and temperature. Figure 1 shows PV cell output current-voltage and power
Pedram, Massoud
Interline Photovoltaic (I-PV) power system - A novel concept of power flow control and management
This paper presents a new system configuration for a large-scale Photovoltaic (PV) power system with multi-line transmission/distribution networks. A PV power plant is reconfigured in a way that two adjacent power system ...
Khadkikar, Vinod
Berkeley Program Offers New Option for Financing Residential PV Systems
Readily accessible credit has often been cited as a necessary ingredient to open up the market for residential photovoltaic (PV) systems. Though financing does not reduce the high up-front cost of PV, by spreading that cost over some portion of the system's life, financing can certainly make PV systems more affordable. As a result, a number of states have, in the past, set up special residential loan programs targeting the installation of renewable energy systems and/or energy-efficiency improvements and often featuring low interest rates, longer terms and no-hassle application requirements. Historically, these loan programs have had mixed success (particularly for PV), for a variety of reasons, including a historical lack of homeowner interest in PV, a lack of program awareness, a reduced appeal in a low-interest-rate environment, and a tendency for early PV adopters to be wealthy and not in need of financing. Some of these barriers have begun to fade. Most notably, homeowner interest in PV has grown in some states, particularly those that offer solar rebates. The passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005), however, introduced one additional roadblock to the success of low-interest PV loan programs: a residential solar investment tax credit (ITC), subject to the Federal government's 'anti-double-dipping' rules. Specifically, the residential solar ITC--equal to 30% of the system's tax basis, capped at $2000--will be reduced or offset if the system also benefits from what is known as 'subsidized energy financing', which is likely to include most government-sponsored low-interest loan programs. Within this context, it has been interesting to note the recent flurry of announcements from a number of U.S cities concerning a new type of PV financing program. Led by the city of Berkeley, Calif., these cities propose to offer their residents the ability to finance the installation of a PV system using increased property tax assessments, rather than a more-traditional credit vehicle, to recover both system and administrative costs. This approach has a number of features that should appeal to PV owners, including long-term, fixed-cost, attractive financing; loans that are tied to the tax capacity of the property rather than to the owner's credit standing; a repayment obligation that transfers along with the sale of the property; and a potential ability to deduct the repayment obligation from federal taxable income as part of the local property tax deduction. For these reasons, Berkeley's program, which was first announced on October 23, 2007, has received considerable nationwide attention in both the trade and general press. Since the announcement, cities from throughout California and the broader U.S. have expressed keen interest in the possibility of replicating this type of program. In California alone, the cities of Santa Cruz, Santa Monica and Palm Desert are all reportedly considering similar programs, while the city of San Francisco has recently announced its own program, portions of which closely parallel Berkeley's approach. In addition, a bill (AB 811) that would authorize all cities in California, not just charter cities like Berkeley, to create this type of program was approved by the California General Assembly on January 29 and is currently under consideration in the State Senate. A similar bill in Colorado (HB 1350) was signed into law on May 28. Elsewhere, the city of Tucson, Arizona has also considered this financing approach.
Bolinger, Mark A
205 kW Photovoltaic (PV) System Installed on the U.S. Department...
205 kW Photovoltaic (PV) System Installed on the U.S. Department of Energy's Forrestal Building 205 kW Photovoltaic (PV) System Installed on the U.S. Department of Energy's...
Optimal Design of Hybrid Energy System with PV/ Wind Turbine/ Storage: A Case Study
Optimal Design of Hybrid Energy System with PV/ Wind Turbine/ Storage: A Case Study Rui Huang development of photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine and battery technologies, hybrid energy system has received of the hybrid energy system that consists of PV arrays, wind turbines and battery storage and use that to define
Low, Steven H.
A software tool for optimal sizing of PV systems in Malaysia
This paper presents a MATLAB based user friendly software tool called as PV. MY for optimal sizing of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The software has the capabilities of predicting themetrological variables such as solar energy, ambient temperature and wind ...
Tamer Khatib; Azah Mohamed; K. Sopian
A methodology for optimal sizing of autonomous hybrid PV/wind system
system reliability requirements, with the lowest value of levelised cost of energy. Modelling a hybrid PV mathematical models for characterizing PV module, wind generator and battery are proposed. The second step of the hybrid PV/wind system are the reliable power supply of the consumer under varying atmospheric conditions
Factors Associated with Photovoltaic System Costs (Topical Issues Brief)
A variety of factors can affect the cost of photovoltaic systems. This report analyses the relationship among such factors by using information entered into a voluntary registry of PV systems and performing regression analyses. The results showed statistically significant relationships between photovoltaic system cost and (a) grid connection, (b) installation year, (c) areas where the utility had entered into volume purchasing agreements.
Mortensen, J.
Estimating the environmental and economic effects of widespread residential PV adoption using GIS and NEMS
This paper describes a study of the national effects of widespread adoption of grid-connected residential rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems. A Geographic Information System (GIS) model is used to estimate potential PV system adoption and PV electricity generation and the National Energy Modeling System (NEMS) is used to estimate the national effects of PV electricity generation. Adoption is assumed to occur if levelized PV system cost is less than the local average retail electricity rate at the country level. An estimate of the current {open_quotes}best{close_quotes} scenario (defined by a 6.5% real interest rate, 30-year loan life, $6{sub 1994}/W system cost, and $4{sub 1994}/month voluntary premium) results in no adoption. Several scenarios designed to stimulate PV adoption are modeled. As an example, if PV system costs are instead assumed to be $3{sub 1994}/W, rooftop systems are found to be cost effective in 16% of detached single-family households in the U.S. by 2015 (assuming full adoption of 4-kW systems), this results in 82.1 TWh of annual PV electricity generation, 170 TWh of avoided electricity transmission, distribution, and generation losses, 6 Mt/a of avoided carbon emissions, 50 kt/a of avoided NOx emissions, and 27.3 GW of avoided electricity generating capacity in place.
Marnay, C.; Richey, R.C.; Mahler, S.A. [and others
Distributed Power Electronics for PV Systems (Presentation)
An overview of the benefits and applications of microinverters and DC power optimizers in residential systems. Some conclusions from this report are: (1) The impact of shade is greater than just the area of shade; (2) Additional mismatch losses include panel orientation, panel distribution, inverter voltage window, soiling; (3) Per-module devices can help increase performance, 4-12% or more depending on the system; (4) Value-added benefits (safety, monitoring, reduced design constraints) are helping their adoption; and (5) The residential market is growing rapidly. Efficiency increases, cost reductions are improving market acceptance. Panel integration will further reduce price and installation cost. Reliability remains an unknown.
NREL Mesa Top PV System | Open Energy Information
NREL Mesa Top PV System NREL Mesa Top PV System Jump to: navigation, search Name NREL Mesa Top PV System Facility National Renewable Energy Laboratory Sector Solar Facility Type Photovoltaic Owner SunEdison Solar Developer SunEdison Solar Energy Purchaser National Renewable Energy Laboratory Address 15500 Denver West Parkway Location Golden, CO Coordinates 39.744550202°, -105.174608231° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":39.744550202,"lon":-105.174608231,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Rooftop PV system. Final technical progress report, Phase II
Under this four-year PV:BONUS Program, ECD and United Solar are developing and demonstrating two new lightweight flexible building integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) modules specifically designed as exact replacements for conventional asphalt shingles and standing seam metal roofing. These modules can be economically and aesthetically integrated into new residential and commercial buildings, and address the even larger roofing replacement market. The modules are designed to be installed by roofing contractors without special training which minimizes the installation and balance of system costs. The modules will be fabricated from high-efficiency, multiple-junction a-Si alloy solar cells developed by ECD and United Solar. Under the Phase I Program, which ended in March 1994, we developed two different concept designs for rooftop PV modules: (1) the United Solar overlapping (asphalt shingle replacement) shingle-type modules and (2) the ECD metal roof-type modules. We also developed a plan for fabricating, testing and demonstrating these modules. Candidate demonstration sites for our rooftop PV modules were identified and preliminary engineering designs for these demonstrations were developed; a marketing study plan was also developed. The major objectives of the Phase II Program, which started in June 1994 was (1) to develop, test, and qualify these new rooftop modules; (2) to develop mechanical and electrical engineering specifications for the demonstration projects; and (3) to develop a marketing/commercialization plan.
Solar PV Manufacturing Cost Model Group: Installed Solar PV System Prices (Presentation)
EERE's Solar Energy Technologies Program is charged with leading the Secretary's SunShot Initiative to reduce the cost of electricity from solar by 75% to be cost competitive with conventional energy sources without subsidy by the end of the decade. As part of this Initiative, the program has funded the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to develop module manufacturing and solar PV system installation cost models to ensure that the program's cost reduction targets are carefully aligned with current and near term industry costs. The NREL cost analysis team has leveraged the laboratories' extensive experience in the areas of project finance and deployment, as well as industry partnerships, to develop cost models that mirror the project cost analysis tools used by project managers at leading U.S. installers. The cost models are constructed through a "bottoms-up" assessment of each major cost element, beginning with the system's bill of materials, labor requirements (type and hours) by component, site-specific charges, and soft costs. In addition to the relevant engineering, procurement, and construction costs, the models also consider all relevant costs to an installer, including labor burdens and overhead rates, supply chain costs, and overhead and materials inventory costs, and assume market-specific profits.
Goodrich, A. C.; Woodhouse, M.; James, T.
Smart Energy Management and Control for Fuel Cell Based Micro-Grid Connected Neighborhoods
Fuel cell power generation promises to be an efficient, pollution-free, reliable power source in both large scale and small scale, remote applications. DOE formed the Solid State Energy Conversion Alliance with the intention of breaking one of the last barriers remaining for cost effective fuel cell power generation. The Alliance�s goal is to produce a core solid-state fuel cell module at a cost of no more than $400 per kilowatt and ready for commercial application by 2010. With their inherently high, 60-70% conversion efficiencies, significantly reduced carbon dioxide emissions, and negligible emissions of other pollutants, fuel cells will be the obvious choice for a broad variety of commercial and residential applications when their cost effectiveness is improved. In a research program funded by the Department of Energy, the research team has been investigating smart fuel cell-operated residential micro-grid communities. This research has focused on using smart control systems in conjunction with fuel cell power plants, with the goal to reduce energy consumption, reduce demand peaks and still meet the energy requirements of any household in a micro-grid community environment. In Phases I and II, a SEMaC was developed and extended to a micro-grid community. In addition, an optimal configuration was determined for a single fuel cell power plant supplying power to a ten-home micro-grid community. In Phase III, the plan is to expand this work to fuel cell based micro-grid connected neighborhoods (mini-grid). The economic implications of hydrogen cogeneration will be investigated. These efforts are consistent with DOE�s mission to decentralize domestic electric power generation and to accelerate the onset of the hydrogen economy. A major challenge facing the routine implementation and use of a fuel cell based mini-grid is the varying electrical demand of the individual micro-grids, and, therefore, analyzing these issues is vital. Efforts are needed to determine the most appropriate means of implementing micro-grids and the costs and processes involved with their extended operation. With the development and availability of fuel cell based stand-alone power plants, an electrical mini-grid, encompassing several connected residential neighborhoods, has become a viable concept. A primary objective of this project is to define the parameters of an economically efficient fuel cell based mini-grid. Since pure hydrogen is not economically available in sufficient quantities at the present time, the use of reforming technology to produce and store excess hydrogen will also be investigated. From a broader perspective, the factors that bear upon the feasibility of fuel cell based micro-grid connected neighborhoods are similar to those pertaining to the electrification of a small town with a localized power generating station containing several conventional generating units. In the conventional case, the town or locality would also be connected to the larger grid system of the utility company. Therefore, in the case of the fuel cell based micro-grid connected neighborhoods, this option should also be available. The objectives of this research project are: To demonstrate that smart energy management of a fuel cell based micro-grid connected neighborhood can be efficient and cost-effective;To define the most economical micro-grid configuration; and, To determine how residential micro-grid connected fuel cell(s) can contribute to America's hydrogen energy future.
Dr. Mohammad S. Alam
Advanced Photovoltaic Inverter Functionality using 500 kW Power Hardware-in-Loop Complete System Laboratory Testing: Preprint
With the increasing penetration of distribution connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, more and more PV developers and utilities are interested in easing future PV interconnection concerns by mitigating some of the impacts of PV integration using advanced PV inverter controls and functions. This paper describes the testing of a 500 kW PV inverter using Power Hardware-in-Loop (PHIL) testing techniques. The test setup is described and the results from testing the inverter in advanced functionality modes, not commonly used in currently interconnected PV systems, are presented. PV inverter operation under PHIL evaluation that emulated both the DC PV array connection and the AC distribution level grid connection are shown for constant power factor (PF) and constant reactive power (VAr) control modes. The evaluation of these modes was completed under varying degrees of modeled PV variability.
Mather, B. A.; Kromer, M. A.; Casey, L.
Rooftop PV system. PV:BONUS Phase 3B, final technical report
Under the PV:BONUS Program, ECD and United Solar developed, demonstrated and commercialized two new lightweight, flexible BIPV modules specifically designed as replacements for conventional asphalt shingles and standing seam metal roofing. These modules can be economically and aesthetically integrated into new residential and commercial buildings, and can be used to address the even larger roofing-replacement market. An important design feature of these modules, which minimizes the installation and balance-of-system costs, is their ability to be installed by conventional roofing contractors without special training. The modules are fabricated from high-efficiency, triple-junction spectrum-splitting a-Si alloy solar cells developed by ECD and United Solar. These cells are produced on thin, flexible stainless steel substrates and encapsulated with polymer materials. The Phase 3 program began in August 1995. The principal tasks and goals of this program, which have all been successfully completed by ECD and United Solar, are described in the body and appendices of this report.
Original article: Selective compensation of voltage harmonics in grid-connected microgrids
In this paper, a novel approach is proposed for selective compensation of main voltage harmonics in a grid-connected microgrid. The aim of compensation is to provide a high voltage quality at the point of common coupling (PCC). PCC voltage quality is ... Keywords: Distributed generator (DG), Grid-connected, Microgrid, Voltage harmonics compensation
Mehdi Savaghebi, Juan C. Vasquez, Alireza Jalilian, Josep M. Guerrero, Tzung-Lin Lee
Quantify Degradation Rates and Mechanisms of PV Modules and Systems Installed in Florida Through Comprehensive Experimental and Theoretical Analysis (Poster)
The economic viability of photovoltaic (PV) technologies is inextricably tied to both the electrical performance and degradation rate of the PV systems, which are the generators of electrical power in PV systems. Over the past 15 years, performance data have been collected on numerous PV systems installed throughout the state of Florida and will be presented.
Sorloaica-Hickman, N.; Davis, K.; Kurtz, S.; Jordan, D.
Chile-GTZ Public Properties for Grid-connected Renewable Energy Projects |
Properties for Grid-connected Renewable Energy Projects Properties for Grid-connected Renewable Energy Projects Jump to: navigation, search Logo: Chile-GTZ Public Properties for Grid-connected Renewable Energy Projects Name Chile-GTZ Public Properties for Grid-connected Renewable Energy Projects Agency/Company /Organization GTZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) Sector Energy Topics Background analysis Website http://www.gtz.de/en/themen/27 Program Start 2008 Program End 2011 Country Chile UN Region Latin America and the Caribbean References Public Properties for Grid-connected Renewable Energy Projects[1] GTZ is working with Chile with the following objective: "Sites on state-owned properties are identified, assessed and marketed to enable the
Original article: Power flow Petri Net modelling for building integrated multi-source power system with smart grid interaction
This paper presents an energy management modelling of a multi-source power system composed of photovoltaic (PV) array, storage and power grid connection, and taking into account messages from smart grid. The designed system can supply a tertiary building ... Keywords: Energy management, Petri Net modelling, Photovoltaic, Smart grid, Stateflow
B. C. Wang, M. Sechilariu, F. Locment
Accelerating PV Cost Effectiveness Through Systems Design, Engineering, and Quality Assurance: Final Subcontract Report, June 2007
This report describes PowerLight Corporation's significant progress toward the reduction of installed costs for commercial-scale, rooftop PV systems.
Botkin, J.
Partially Shaded Operation of a Grid-Tied PV System: Preprint
This paper presents background and experimental results from a single-string grid-tied PV system, operated under a variety of shading conditions.
Bulk Electricity System Impacts of Distributed and Transmission System Connected Solar PV
This report describes research examining how increased levels of photovoltaic (PV) can impact the bulk electricity system. Previous modeling of both bulk and distributed systems was extended to include more realistic assumptions, further sensitivities, and greater explanation of results. It was shown that high penetrations of distributed PV without low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) will increase voltage recovery time after a fault. The impact is exacerbated when the potential for residential ac ...
Global Grid-Connected Hybrid-Electric Vehicle Project: Year-End Summary Report, November 2000
This interim report summarizes research conducted under the auspices of the Global Grid-Connected Hybrid Electric Vehicle Project, an EPRI initiative to promote the use of grid-connected electric technologies in heavy-duty applications. One study in the program evaluated the potential of converting a Ford E-350 or E-450 Super Duty chassis into a grid-connected hybrid electric vehicle airport shuttle bus and a Ford Explorer chassis into a dedicated electric vehicle delivery van. A second study analyzed ad...
and upper bounds on Cc ref, and introduce an efficient algorithm for calculating its value; these results greenhouse gas emissions due to fossil fuels and the liberalization of the electricity market have led in zero-energy buildings and residential homes, or iv) power arbitrage under time-of-use electricity
Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation Amonix,
Amonix, Inc. Amonix, Inc. Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation Amonix, Inc. A series of brief fact sheet on various topics including:Low Cost High Concentration PV Systems for Utility Power Generation,High Efficiency Concentrating Photovoltaic Power System,Reaching Grid Parity Using BP Solar Crystalline Silicon Technology, Fully Integrated Building Science Solutions for Residential and Commercial Photovoltaic Energy Generation,A Value Chain Partnership to Accelerate U.S. Photovoltaic Industry Growth,AC Module PV System,Flexible Organic Polymer-Based PV For Building Integrated Commercial Applications,Flexable Integrated PV System,Delivering Grid-Parity Solar Electricity On Flat Commercial Rooftops,Fully Automated Systems Technology, Concentrating Solar Panels: Bringing the Highest Power and Lowest Cost to
Solar San Diego: The Impact of Binomial Rate Structures on Real PV Systems; Preprint
There is confusion in the marketplace regarding the impact of solar photovoltaics (PV) on the user's actual electricity bill under California Net Energy Metering, particularly with binomial tariffs (those that include both demand and energy charges) and time-of-use (TOU) rate structures. The City of San Diego has extensive real-time electrical metering on most of its buildings and PV systems, with interval data for overall consumption and PV electrical production available for multiple years. This paper uses 2007 PV-system data from two city facilities to illustrate the impacts of binomial rate designs. The analysis will determine the energy and demand savings that the PV systems are achieving relative to the absence of systems. A financial analysis of PV-system performance under various rate structures is presented. The data revealed that actual demand and energy use benefits of binomial tariffs increase in summer months, when solar resources allow for maximized electricity production. In a binomial tariff system, varying on- and semi-peak times can result in approximately $1,100 change in demand charges per month over not having a PV system in place, an approximate 30% cost savings. The PV systems are also shown to have a 30%-50% reduction in facility energy charges in 2007.
VanGeet, O.; Brown, E.; Blair, T.; McAllister, A.
Solar San Diego: The Impact of Binomial Rate Structures on Real PV-Systems
There is confusion in the marketplace regarding the impact of solar photovoltaics (PV) on the user's actual electricity bill under California Net Energy Metering, particularly with binomial tariffs (those that include both demand and energy charges) and time-of-use (TOU) rate structures. The City of San Diego has extensive real-time electrical metering on most of its buildings and PV systems, with interval data for overall consumption and PV electrical production available for multiple years. This paper uses 2007 PV-system data from two city facilities to illustrate the impacts of binomial rate designs. The analysis will determine the energy and demand savings that the PV systems are achieving relative to the absence of systems. A financial analysis of PV-system performance under various rates structures is presented. The data revealed that actual demand and energy use benefits of bionomial tariffs increase in summer months, when solar resources allow for maximized electricity production. In a binomial tariff system, varying on- and semi-peak times can result in approximately $1,100 change in demand charges per month over not having a PV system in place, an approximate 30% cost savings. The PV systems are also shown to have a 30%-50% reduction in facility energy charges in 2007. Future work will include combining demand and electricity charges and increasing the breadth of rate structures tested, including the impacts of non-coincident demand charges.
Van Geet, O.; Brown, E.; Blair, T.; McAllister, A.
Maine Project Launches First Grid-Connected Offshore Wind Turbine in the
Maine Project Launches First Grid-Connected Offshore Wind Turbine Maine Project Launches First Grid-Connected Offshore Wind Turbine in the U.S. Maine Project Launches First Grid-Connected Offshore Wind Turbine in the U.S. May 31, 2013 - 11:00am Addthis News Media Contact (202) 586-4940 WASHINGTON - The Energy Department today recognized the nation's first grid-connected offshore floating wind turbine prototype off the coast of Castine, Maine. Led by the University of Maine, this project represents the first concrete-composite floating platform wind turbine to be deployed in the world - strengthening American leadership in innovative clean energy technologies that diversify the nation's energy mix with more clean, domestic energy sources. "Developing America's vast renewable energy resources is an important part of the Energy Department's all-of-the-above strategy to pave the way
Maine Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Tidal Energy Project |
Maine Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Tidal Energy Maine Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Tidal Energy Project Maine Deploys First U.S. Commercial, Grid-Connected Tidal Energy Project July 24, 2012 - 1:12pm Addthis NEWS MEDIA CONTACT (202) 586-4940 WASHINGTON -- Today, Energy Secretary Steven Chu recognized the nation's first commercial, grid-connected tidal energy project off the coast of Eastport, Maine. Leveraging a $10 million investment from the Energy Department, Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC) will deploy its first commercial tidal energy device into Cobscook Bay this summer. The project, which injected $14 million into the local economy and has supported more than 100 local and supply chain jobs, represents the first tidal energy project in the United States with long-term contracts to sell electricity
Mongolia-GTZ Energy Efficiency within the Grid-Connected Energy Supply |
within the Grid-Connected Energy Supply within the Grid-Connected Energy Supply Jump to: navigation, search Logo: Mongolia-GTZ Energy Efficiency within the Grid-Connected Energy Supply Name Mongolia-GTZ Energy Efficiency within the Grid-Connected Energy Supply Agency/Company /Organization Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Partner German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Ministry of Fuel and Energy (MoFE) Sector Energy Topics Background analysis, Policies/deployment programs Website http://www.gtz.de/en/praxis/95 Program Start 2007 Program End 2010 Country Mongolia Eastern Asia References GTZ projects [1] GTZ is working with Mongolia on energy efficiency capacity development for institutions and the private sector. References
PV Standards Work: Photovoltaic System and Component Certification, Test Facility Accreditation, and Solar Photovoltaic Energy Systems International Standards
This paper discusses efforts led by two companies (PowerMark Corporation and Sunset Technologies Inc.) to support both U.S. domestic and international photovoltaic (PV) system and component certification and test facility accreditation programs and the operation of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Technical Committee 82 (TC-82) Photovoltaic Energy Systems. International and national PV certification/accreditation programs are successfully facilitating entry of only the highest quality PV products into the marketplace. Standards also continue to be a cornerstone for assuring global PV product conformity assessment, reducing non-tariff trade barriers, and ultimately improving PV products while lowering cost.
Basso, T. S.; Chalmers, S.; Barikmo, H. O.
The Impact of Retail Rate Structures on the Economics ofCustomer-Sited PV: A Study of Commercial Installations inCalifornia
We analyze the impact of retail rate design on the economics of grid-connected commercial photovoltaic (PV) systems in California. The analysis is based on 15-minute interval building load and PV production data for 24 commercial PV installations in California, spanning a diverse set of building load shapes and geographic locations. We derive the annual bill savings per kWh generated for each PV system, under each of 21 distinct retail rates currently offered by the five largest utilities in California. We identify and explain variation in the value of bill savings attributable to differences in the structure of demand and energy charges across rates, as well as variation attributable to other factors, such as the size of the PV system relative to building load, the specific shape of the PV production profile, and the customer load profile. We also identify the optimal rate for each customer, among those rates offered as alternatives to one another, and show how the decision is driven in large measure by the size of the PV system relative to building load. The findings reported here may be of value to regulators and utilities responsible for designing retail rates, as well as to customers and PV retailers who have a need to estimate the prospective bill savings of PV systems.
Wiser, Ryan; Mills, Andrew; Barbose, Galen; Golove, William
INTEGRATING THE DESIGN AND RELIABILITY ASSESSMENT OF A HYBRID PV-THERMAL MICROCONCENTRATOR SYSTEM M that the materials from the power electronics industry are also reliable when used in a concentrator PV module and reliability testing have been integrated as concurrent processes, enabling the early optimisation
Load Sharing in a Hybrid Power System with a PV Panel and a PEM Fuel-Cell
varies with the time of the day. In order to improve the reliability of PV energy and at the same timeLoad Sharing in a Hybrid Power System with a PV Panel and a PEM Fuel-Cell Dachuan Yu S. Yuvarajan power system with PV panels and a PEM fuel cell is described. The system draws the maximum power
Yuvarajan, Subbaraya
Economics and performance of PV hybrid power systems: Three case studies
The Photovoltaic Systems Assistance Center (PVSAC) of Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) has been supporting the development and implementation of off-grid PV hybrid power systems for many years. Technical support has included: refining hardware; understanding system design techniques; obtaining operation and maintenance data; studying use of energy produced. As part of the program, the PVSAC has provided technical expertise on hybrid systems to many federal agencies including the National Park Service, the Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Department of Defense. The goal of these partnerships has been to ensure that reliable and safe PV hybrid systems are specified and procured. At present, a critical review of performance and costs of several representative PV hybrid systems is underway. This paper presents a summary of the performance and economical analyses conducted on three PV hybrid systems.
Rosenthal, A.L.; Durand, S.J. [Southwest Technology Development Inst., Las Cruces, NM (United States); Thomas, M.G.; Post, H.N. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Optimal Design of Integration of Intelligent, Adaptive Solar (PV) Power Generator with Grid for Domestic Energy Management System
This paper introduces a novel system based on integration of solar power generator with grid for optimal utilization of energy by minimizing the power drawn from grid. A prototype grid integrated PV system comprising of PV module (2*75Wp), battery bank ... Keywords: Solar power Generator (SPG), Domestic Energy Management, Bi-directional Inverter, Photovoltaic(PV), Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
S. N. Singh; Pooja Singh; Swati Kumari; Swati
Very Large-Scale Deployment of Grid-Connected Solar Photovoltaics in the United States: Challenges and Opportunities; Preprint
This paper analyzes the potential for solar photovoltaics (PV) to be deployed on a very large scale and provide a large fraction of a system's electricity. It explicitly examines how the hourly availability of PV interacts with the limited flexibility of traditional electricity generation plants. The authors found that, under high penetration levels and existing grid-operation procedures and rules, the system will have excess PV generation during certain periods of the year. This excess PV generation results in increased costs, which can increase dramatically when PV provides on the order of 10%-15% of total electricity demand in systems that are heavily dependent on inflexible baseload steam plants. Measures to increase penetration of PV are also discussed, including increased system flexibility, increased dispatchable load, and energy storage.
Denholm, P.; Margolis, R.
Wind and Solar-Electric (PV) Systems Exemption | Department of Energy
You are here You are here Home » Wind and Solar-Electric (PV) Systems Exemption Wind and Solar-Electric (PV) Systems Exemption < Back Eligibility Commercial Industrial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Wind Maximum Rebate None Program Info State Minnesota Program Type Property Tax Incentive Rebate Amount Solar: 100% exemption from real property taxes Wind: 100% exemption from real and personal property taxes Provider Minnesota Department of Commerce Minnesota excludes the value added by solar-electric (PV) systems installed after January 1, 1992 from real property taxation. In addition all real and personal property of wind-energy systems is exempt from the state's property tax.* However, the land on which a PV or wind system is located remains taxable.
System aspects of large scale implementation of a photovoltaic power plant.
?? In this thesis the static and dynamic behavior of large scale grid connected PV power plants are analyzed. A model of a 15 MW� (more)
Ruiz, �lvaro
Amp-hour counting control for PV hybrid power systems
The performance of an amp-hour (Ah) counting battery charge control algorithm has been defined and tested using the Digital Solar Technologies MPR-9400 microprocessor based PV hybrid charge controller. This work included extensive field testing of the charge algorithm on flooded lead-antimony and valve regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries. The test results after one-year have demonstrated that PV charge utilization, battery charge control, and battery state of charge (SOC) has been significantly improved by providing maximum charge to the batteries while limiting battery overcharge to manufacturers specifications during variable solar resource and load periods.
Hund, T.D. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Thompson, B. [Biri Systems, Ithaca, NY (United States)
Multi-Objective Capacity Planning of a Pv-Wind-Diesel-Battery Hybrid Power System
A new solution methodology of the capacity design problem of a PV-Wind-Diesel-Battery Hybrid Power System (HPS) is presented. The problem is formulated as a Linear Programming (LP) model with two objectives: minimizing ...
Saif, A.
for interconnection or net metering, or by lawmakers andi.e. , separate from net metering of the facility�s load (knowledge and capabilities. Net metering provides PV system
in partnership with the General Services Administration (GSA), has installed a rooftop solar electric, or PV, system on the roof of DOE's headquarters in Washington, D.C. The...
A $5 Million Boost for Midsize Wind Turbines and Grid Connectivity |
A $5 Million Boost for Midsize Wind Turbines and Grid Connectivity A $5 Million Boost for Midsize Wind Turbines and Grid Connectivity A $5 Million Boost for Midsize Wind Turbines and Grid Connectivity September 14, 2010 - 10:52am Addthis Niketa Kumar Niketa Kumar Public Affairs Specialist, Office of Public Affairs What does this mean for me? With better forecasting, utilities can more reliably connect variable power sources such as wind energy with electricity grids, and can decrease their need for back-up energy sources such as natural gas and hydropower. Last week's Geek-Up talked about the Energy Department's Wind for Schools program and how it is helping schools use wind turbines to power their classrooms. Yesterday, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced more than $5 million in funding to help bring wind-generated power to not only more
�AC Solar Cells�: An Embedded �All in One� PV Power System
Grid-tied power converters in a photovoltaic (PV) system constructed from discrete components are difficult to mass produce, and the installation involves a significant labor cost to have the proper interconnection among the panel, the inverter, and the grid. Several critical applications such as portable power stations in a battlefield or any scientific expedition will require several key attributes from a PV-based power system, such as modularity, high reliability, and quick setup time. Therefore, a ...
Plug and Play Components for Building Integrated PV Systems, Phase II Final Report, 20 February 2003 - 31 May 2007
Progress by Schott Solar, Inc. under NREL's PV Manufacturing R&D Project. Details progress on meter-interconnect device; free-standing mounting system; dark I-V curves to unearth problems with PV module strings; new 34-V version of ASE-300 PV module; and updated source-circuit protectors.
Rowell, D.
New Berkeley Lab Report Tracks a Decade of PV Installed Cost Trends
Installations of PV systems have been expanding at a rapid pace in recent years. In the United States, the market for PV is driven by national, state, and local government incentives, including upfront cash rebates, production-based incentives, requirements that electricity suppliers purchase a certain amount of solar energy, and Federal and state tax benefits. These programs are, in part, motivated by the popular appeal of solar energy and by the positive attributes of PV - e.g., modest environmental impacts, avoidance of fuel price risks, coincidence with peak electrical demand, and the location of PV at the point of use. Given the relatively high cost of PV, however, a key goal of these policies is to encourage cost reductions over time. Therefore, as policy incentives have become more significant and as PV deployment has accelerated, so too has the desire to track the installed cost of PV systems over time, by system characteristics, by system location, and by component. A new Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory report, 'Tracking the Sun: The Installed Cost of Photovoltaics in the U.S. from 1998-2007', helps to fill this need by summarizing trends in the installed cost (i.e., the cost paid by the system owner) of grid-connected PV systems in the U.S. The report is based on an analysis of project-level cost data from nearly 37,000 residential and non-residential PV systems completed from 1998-2007 and installed on the utility-customer-side of the meter. These systems total 363 MW, equal to 76% of all grid-connected PV capacity installed in the U.S. through 2007, representing the most comprehensive data source available on the installed cost of PV in the United States. The data were obtained from administrators of PV incentive programs around the country, who typically collect installed cost data for systems receiving incentives. A total of 16 programs, spanning 12 states, ultimately provided data for the study. Reflecting the broader geographical trends in the U.S. PV market, the vast majority of the systems in the data sample are located in California (83%, by capacity) and New Jersey (12%), The remaining systems are located in Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The PV systems in the dataset range in size from 100 W to 1.3 MW, almost 90% of which are smaller than 10 kW. This article briefly summarizes some of the key findings from the Berkeley Lab study (the full report can be downloaded at http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/emp/re-pubs.html). The article begins by summarizing trends related to the installed cost of PV systems prior to receipt of any financial incentives, and then discusses how changes in incentive levels over time and variation across states have impacted the net installed cost of PV to the customer, after receipt of incentives. Note that all cost and incentive data are presented in real 2007 dollars (2007$), and all capacity and dollars-perwatt ($/W) data are presented in terms of rated module power output under Standard Test Conditions (DC-STC).
Barbose, Galen; Peterman, Carla; Wiser, Ryan
Designing PV Incentive Programs to Promote System Performance: AReview of Current Practice
Some stakeholders continue to voice concerns about the performance of customer-sited photovoltaic (PV) systems, particularly because these systems typically receive financial support through ratepayer- or publicly-funded programs. Although much remains to be understood about the extent and specific causes of poor PV system performance, several studies of the larger programs and markets have shed some light on the issue. An evaluation of the California Energy Commission (CEC)'s Emerging Renewables Program, for example, found that 7% of systems, in a sample of 95, had lower-than-expected power output due to shading or soiling (KEMA 2005). About 3% of a larger sample of 140 systems were not operating at all or were operating well below expected output, due to failed equipment, faulty installation workmanship, and/or a lack of basic maintenance. In a recent evaluation of the other statewide PV incentive program in California, the Self-Generation Incentive Program, 9 of 52 projects sampled were found to have annual capacity factors less than 14.5%, although reasons for these low capacity factors generally were not identified (Itron 2005). Studies of PV systems in Germany and Japan, the two largest PV markets worldwide, have also revealed some performance problems associated with issues such as shading, equipment and installation defects, inverter failure, and deviations from module manufacturers' specifications (Otani et al. 2004, Jahn & Nasse 2004). Although owners of PV systems have an inherent incentive to ensure that their systems perform well, many homeowners and building operators may lack the necessary information and expertise to carry out this task effectively. Given this barrier, and the responsibility of PV incentive programs to ensure that public funds are prudently spent, these programs should (and often do) play a critical role in promoting PV system performance. Performance-based incentives (PBIs), which are based on actual energy production rather than the rated capacity of the modules or system, are often suggested as one possible strategy. Somewhat less recognized are the many other program design options also available, each with its particular advantages and disadvantages. To provide a point of reference for assessing the current state of the art, and to inform program design efforts going forward, we examine the approaches to encouraging PV system performance - including, but not limited to, PBIs - used by 32 prominent PV incentive programs in the U.S. (see Table 1).1 We focus specifically on programs that offer an explicit subsidy payment for customer-sited PV installations. PV support programs that offer other forms of financial support or that function primarily as a mechanism for purchasing renewable energy credits (RECs) through energy production-based payments are outside the scope of our review.2 The information presented herein is derived primarily from publicly available sources, including program websites and guidebooks, programs evaluations, and conference papers, as well as from a limited number of personal communications with program staff. The remainder of this report is organized as follows. The next section presents a simple conceptual framework for understanding the issues that affect PV system performance and provides an overview of the eight general strategies to encourage performance used among the programs reviewed in this report. The subsequent eight sections discuss in greater detail each of these program design strategies and describe how they have been implemented among the programs surveyed. Based on this review, we then offer a series of recommendations for how PV incentive programs can effectively promote PV system performance.
Hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) solar systems simulation with Simulink/Matlab
The purpose of this work consists in thermodynamic modeling of hybrid photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) solar systems, pursuing a modular strategy approach provided by Simulink/Matlab. PV/T solar systems are a recently emerging solar technology that allows for the simultaneous conversion of solar energy into both electricity and heat. This type of technology present some interesting advantages over the conventional ''side-by-side'' thermal and PV solar systems, such as higher combined electrical/thermal energy outputs per unit area, and a more uniform and aesthetical pleasant roof area. Despite the fact that early research on PV/T systems can be traced back to the seventies, only recently it has gained a renewed impetus. In this work, parametric studies and annual transient simulations of PV/T systems are undertaken in Simulink/Matlab. The obtained results show an average annual solar fraction of 67%, and a global overall efficiency of 24% (i.e. 15% thermal and 9% electrical), for a typical four-person single-family residence in Lisbon, with p-Si cells, and a collector area of 6 m{sup 2}. A sensitivity analysis performed on the PV/T collector suggests that the most important variable that should be addressed to improve thermal performance is the photovoltaic (PV) module emittance. Based on those results, some additional improvements are proposed, such as the use of vacuum, or a noble gas at low-pressure, to allow for the removal of PV cells encapsulation without air oxidation and degradation, and thus reducing the PV module emittance. Preliminary results show that this option allows for an 8% increase on optical thermal efficiency, and a substantial reduction of thermal losses, suggesting the possibility of working at higher fluid temperatures. The higher working temperatures negative effect in electrical efficiency was negligible, due to compensation by improved optical properties. The simulation results are compared with experimental data obtained from other authors and perform reasonably well. The Simulink modeling platform has been mainly used worldwide on simulation of control systems, digital signal processing and electric circuits, but there are very few examples of application to solar energy systems modeling. This work uses the modular environment of Simulink/Matlab to model individual PV/T system components, and to assemble the entire installation layout. The results show that the modular approach strategy provided by Matlab/Simulink environment is applicable to solar systems modeling, providing good code scalability, faster developing time, and simpler integration with external computational tools, when compared with traditional imperative-oriented programming languages. (author)
da Silva, R.M.; Fernandes, J.L.M. [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Instituto Superior Tecnico, Lisbon (Portugal)
Impact of High-Penetration PV on Distribution System Performance: Assessment of Regulation Control Options for Voltage Mitigation
Photovoltaics are beginning to challenge distribution system power engineers nationwide. The impact photovoltaics (PV) has on the power system is directly tied to system characteristics which include but are not limited to voltage class, load, regulation, and short circuit capacity. In addition to the system characteristics, the solar characteristics also play a key role. These include details on the PV systems themselves in addition to the solar irradiance data. The correlation of PV output and ...
Enhanced modeling and control of VSIs in microgrids operating in grid-connected mode
This paper focus on the influence of filter dynamics on the performance and stability of current control loops of three-phase, pulse-width modulation (PWM) voltage source inverters (VSIs) in grid-connected operating mode. The analysis considers the application ...
Leonardo Rese; Antonio Simoes Costa; Aguinaldo S. e Silva
Analysis of Ultracapacitors for Use in a Grid-Connected Hybrid Electric Vehicle
This study assessed the benefits of combining the unique energy-storage capabilities of ultracapacitors with a grid-connected hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). Ultracapacitors reduce the peak power requirements of the power pack and could thus allow the use of alternate battery technologies with better cost and life cycle characteristics.
Microsoft PowerPoint - LIPA Considerations for Grid Connection...
of the f d t l f fundamental frequency. 1 Interconnection Complications Experienced Inverter manufacturers could not guarantee SGF could disconnect from the LIPA system within...
Sundance, Skiing and Solar: Park City to Install New PV System | Department
Sundance, Skiing and Solar: Park City to Install New PV System Sundance, Skiing and Solar: Park City to Install New PV System Sundance, Skiing and Solar: Park City to Install New PV System October 25, 2010 - 10:49am Addthis Park City, UT has completed several green projects recently. The town is installing a solar energy system on top of the Marsac Building at the end of the month. | Photo courtesy of Park City | Park City, UT has completed several green projects recently. The town is installing a solar energy system on top of the Marsac Building at the end of the month. | Photo courtesy of Park City | Paul Lester Communications Specialist for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy What does this project do? 80-panel solar energy system to be installed at Park City's Marsac Building. Recovery Act-funded system to generate up to 15% of the building's
The Impact of Retail Rate Structures on the Economics of Commercial Photovoltaic Systems in California
This article examines the impact of retail electricity rate design on the economic value of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, focusing on commercial customers in California. Using 15-minute interval building load and PV production data from a sample of 24 actual commercial PV installations, we compare the value of the bill savings across 20 commercial-customer retail electricity rates currently offered in the state. Across all combinations of customers and rates, we find that the annual bill savings from PV, per kWh generated, ranges from $0.05/kWh to $0.24/kWh. This sizable range in rate-reduction value reflects differences in rate structures, revenue requirements, the size of the PV system relative to building load, and customer load shape. The most significant rate design issue for the value of commercial PV is found to be the percentage of total utility bills recovered through demand charges, though a variety of other factors are also found to be of importance. The value of net metering is found to be substantial, but only when commercial PV systems represent a sizable portion of annual customer load. Though the analysis presented here is specific to California, our general results demonstrate the fundamental importance of retail rate design for the customer-economics of grid-connected, customer-sited PV.
Mills, Andrew; Wiser, Ryan; Barbose, Galen; Golove, William
The impact of retail rate structures on the economics of commercial photovoltaic systems in California
This article examines the impact of retail electricity rate design on the economic value of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, focusing on commercial customers in California. Using 15-min interval building load and PV production data from a sample of 24 actual commercial PV installations, we compare the value of the bill savings across 20 commercial-customer retail electricity rates currently offered in the state. Across all combinations of customers and rates, we find that the annual bill savings from PV, per kWh generated, ranges from $0.05 to $0.24/kWh. This sizable range in rate-reduction value reflects differences in rate structures, revenue requirements, the size of the PV system relative to building load, and customer load shape. The most significant rate design issue for the value of commercial PV is found to be the percentage of total utility bills recovered through demand charges, though a variety of other factors are also found to be of importance. The value of net metering is found to be substantial, but only when energy from commercial PV systems represents a sizable portion of annual customer load. Though the analysis presented here is specific to California, our general results demonstrate the fundamental importance of retail rate design for the customer-economics of grid-connected, customer-sited PV.
Mills, Andrew D.; Wiser, Ryan; Barbose, Galen; Golove, William
New EIA data show total grid-connected photovoltaic solar capacity ...
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
Using new information, EIA combines data on utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity with customer-sited PV capacity, as reported in the graphic.
2006. Celentano, Ron. 2005. �SDF Solar PV Grant Program inSolar Rewards Program Solar PV Rebate Program (Small PVSolar Electric Program Solar PV Grant Program ** Residential
High-Penetration PV Deployment in the Arizona Public Service System, Phase 1 Update: Preprint
In an effort to better understand the impacts of high penetrations of photovoltaic generators on distribution systems, Arizona Public Service and its partners have begun work on a multi-year project to develop the tools and knowledge base needed to safely and reliably integrate high penetrations of utility- and residential-scale photovoltaics (PV). Building upon the APS Community Power Project -- Flagstaff Pilot, this project will analyze the impact of PV on a representative feeder in northeast Flagstaff. To quantify and catalog the effects of the estimated 1.3 MW of PV that will be installed on the feeder (both smaller units at homes as well as large, centrally located systems), high-speed weather and electrical data acquisition systems and digital 'smart' meters are being designed and installed to facilitate monitoring and to build and validate comprehensive, high-resolution models of the distribution system. These models will be used to analyze the impacts of the PV on distribution circuit protection systems (including anti-islanding), predict voltage regulation and phase balance issues, and develop volt/var control schemes. This paper continues from a paper presented at the 2011 IEEE PVSC conference that introduces the project and describes some of the preliminary consideration, as well as project plans and early results. This paper gives a status update of the project and presents selected results from Phase 2 of the project. It discusses baseline feeder modeling, load allocation, data acquisition, utility-scale PV integration, preliminary model validation, and plans for future phases.
Hambrick, J.; Narang, D.
The influence of utility - interactive PV system characteristics to AC power network
Two experimental PV systems are constructed and operated. One is a system with a line-commutated inverter and another uses a self-commutated inverter and is operated alone as an independent power source when the power network is in trouble. Operating and generating characteristics have been measured for the line-commutated inverter system and for the self-commutated inverter system connected to the Ac simulated network which simulates the actual power distribution system. For the system voltage fluctuation, amplitude of variation in AC voltage was measured at the joining point of the simulated distribution network connected to the PV system by changing the system short circuit current ration. For the harmonics characteristics, the line-commutated inverter system is a harmonic current power source and the self-commutated inverter system is a harmonic voltage power source. The protective sequence for failures in the power system or PV system is also studied. An optimum protection control method with an emphasis on safety is proposed for the self-commutated inverter system. This paper also describes examples of failures in solar cell arrays during the operation of these PV systems and proposes data for improving the reliability of solar cell arrays.
Takeda, Y.; Kaminosono, H.; Takigawa, K.
Capacity Value of PV and Wind Generation in the NV Energy System
Calculation of photovoltaic (PV) and wind power capacity values is important for estimating additional load that can be served by new PV or wind installations in the electrical power system. It also is the basis for assigning capacity credit payments in systems with markets. Because of variability in solar and wind resources, PV and wind generation contribute to power system resource adequacy differently from conventional generation. Many different approaches to calculating PV and wind generation capacity values have been used by utilities and transmission operators. Using the NV Energy system as a study case, this report applies peak-period capacity factor (PPCF) and effective load carrying capability (ELCC) methods to calculate capacity values for renewable energy sources. We show the connection between the PPCF and ELCC methods in the process of deriving a simplified approach that approximates the ELCC method. This simplified approach does not require generation fleet data and provides the theoretical basis for a quick check on capacity value results of PV and wind generation. The diminishing return of capacity benefit as renewable generation increases is conveniently explained using the simplified capacity value approach.
Lu, Shuai; Diao, Ruisheng; Samaan, Nader A.; Etingov, Pavel V.
High Penetration of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems into the Distribution Grid, Workshop Report, February 24-25, 2009
Outcomes from the EERE Solar Energy Technologies Program workshop on high penetration of photovoltaic (PV) systems into the distribution grid, Feb. 24-25, 2009, Ontario, Calif.
A Study on the PV System for Simulation Representing Characteristics of DSSC
It is an important factor for the honeypot decoy system to accurately analyze on intrusion information and precisely locate them. As there are some conflict and cooperation relationship among the collected data by honeypot system, it needs to fuse the ... Keywords: Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell, PV system, DLL block, Microsoft Visual C++, PSIM
Won-Yong Chae; Kyoung-Jun Lee; Ho-Sung Kim; Dong-Gil Lee; Hee-Je Kim
Investigation of Synergy Between Electrochemical Capacitors, Flywheels, and Batteries in Hybrid Energy Storage for PV Systems
This report describes the results of a study that investigated the synergy between electrochemical capacitors (ECs) and flywheels, in combination with each other and with batteries, as energy storage subsystems in photovoltaic (PV) systems. EC and flywheel technologies are described and the potential advantages and disadvantages of each in PV energy storage subsystems are discussed. Seven applications for PV energy storage subsystems are described along with the potential market for each of these applications. A spreadsheet model, which used the net present value method, was used to analyze and compare the costs over time of various system configurations based on flywheel models. It appears that a synergistic relationship exists between ECS and flywheels. Further investigation is recommended to quantify the performance and economic tradeoffs of this synergy and its effect on overall system costs.
Miller, John; Sibley, Lewis, B.; Wohlgemuth, John
Exploring the Economic Value of EPAct 2005's PV Tax Credits
The market for grid-connected photovoltaics (PV) in the US has grown dramatically in recent years, driven in large part by PV grant or ''buy-down'' programs in California, New Jersey, and many other states. The recent announcement of a new 11-year, $3.2 billion PV program in California suggests that state policy will continue to drive even faster growth over the next decade. Federal policy has also played a role, primarily by providing commercial PV systems access to tax benefits, including accelerated depreciation (5-year MACRS schedule) and a business energy investment tax credit (ITC). With the signing of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct) on August 8, the federal government is poised to play a much more significant future role in supporting both commercial and residential PV systems. Specifically, EPAct increased the federal ITC for commercial PV systems from 10% to 30% of system costs, and also created a new 30% ITC (capped at $2000) for residential solar systems. Both changes went into effect on January 1, 2006, and--absent an extension (for which the solar industry has already begun lobbying)--will last for a period of two years: the new residential ITC will expire, and the 30% commercial ITC will revert back to 10%, on January 1, 2008. How much economic value do these new and expanded federal tax credits really provide to PV system purchasers? And what implications might they hold for state/utility PV grant programs? Using a generic (i.e., non-state-specific) cash flow model, this report explores these questions. We begin with a discussion of the taxability of PV grants and their interaction with federal credits, as this issue significantly affects the analysis that follows. We then calculate the incremental value of EPAct's new and expanded credits for PV systems of different sizes, and owned by different types of entities. We conclude with a discussion of potential implications for purchasers of PV systems, as well as for administrators of state/utility PV programs.
Bolinger, Mark; Wiser, Ryan; Ing, Edwin
MHK Projects/Evopod E1 1 10 scale grid connected demonstrator | Open Energy
Evopod E1 1 10 scale grid connected demonstrator Evopod E1 1 10 scale grid connected demonstrator < MHK Projects Jump to: navigation, search << Return to the MHK database homepage Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":5,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"500px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"File:Aquamarine-marker.png","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":54.388,"lon":-5.566,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"http:\/\/prod-http-80-800498448.us-east-1.elb.amazonaws.com\/w\/images\/7\/74\/Aquamarine-marker.png","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
MHK Projects/Evopod E35 35kW grid connected demonstrator | Open Energy
E35 35kW grid connected demonstrator E35 35kW grid connected demonstrator < MHK Projects Jump to: navigation, search << Return to the MHK database homepage Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":5,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"500px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"File:Aquamarine-marker.png","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":55.3028,"lon":-5.59772,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"http:\/\/prod-http-80-800498448.us-east-1.elb.amazonaws.com\/w\/images\/7\/74\/Aquamarine-marker.png","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Techno-economics analysis of a wind/PV hybrid system to provide electricity for a household in Malaysia
This paper is study on techno-economics analysis of a wind/PV hybrid system for a household in Malaysia. One year recorded wind speed and solar radiation are used for the design of a hybrid energy system. In 2004 average annual wind speed in Kuala Terengganu ... Keywords: electrical load, techno-economics analysis, wind/PV hybrid system
Ahmad Fudholi; Mohd Zamri Ibrahim; Mohd Hafidz Ruslan; Lim Chin Haw; Sohif Mat; Mohd Yusof Othman; Azami Zaharim; Kamaruzzaman Sopian
Short-Term PV Generation System Direct Power Prediction Model on Wavelet Neural Network and Weather Type Clustering
With the increase of the capacity of PV generated systems, how to eliminate the problem caused by the randomness of power output for photovoltaic system becomes more significant. Most of the existing photovoltaic prediction is Based on the solar radiation. ... Keywords: PV generation system, Wavelet neural network, Weather type clustering, Direct prediction
Ying Yang, Lei Dong
A MPPT Control Method of PV System Based on Fuzzy Logic and Particle Swarm Optimization
In the view of the fact that if crystalline silicon cell's photovoltaic system used for power output can not be controlled, it is hard to grantee the maximum power output, which will cause energy dissipation and high cost. Regarding the PV inverter system ... Keywords: MPPT, Fuzzy Logic, Particle Swarm Optimization
Yufeng Hu; Jun Liu; Bin Liu
Public Response to Residential Grid-Tied PV Systems in Colorado: A Qualitative Market Assessment
The early adopters of residential grid-tied photovoltaics (PV) have complex motivations to pay today's costs, including altruistic, environmental, and financial reasons. Focused interviews were conducted with a self-selected purposive sample interested in purchasing 2-kW or 3-kW PV systems with an installed cost of $8,000 to $12,000. The sample tended to be men or married couples ranging in age from their early thirties to their mid-eighties; professionals, managers, or small business owners; relatively financially secure, with experience with energy efficiency and renewable energy. Product attributes they preferred were net metering, warranties, guarantees, utility financing, maintenance, an option to own or lease, a battery option, and an aesthetically pleasing system. Potential PV customers needed more information before making a purchase decision.
Farhar, B. C.; Buhrmann, J.
Compatibility Study of Protective Relaying in a Grid-Connected Fuel Cell
A 200-kW fuel cell produced by International Fuel Cells (IFC), a United Technologies Company, began operation at the National Transportation Research Center (NTRC) in early June 2003. The NTRC is a joint Oak Ridge National laboratory (ORNL) and University of Tennessee research facility located in Knoxville, Tennessee. This research activity investigated the protective relaying functions of this fully commercialized fuel cell power plant, which uses ''synthesized'' protective relays. The project's goal is to characterize the compatibility between the fuel cell's interconnection protection system and the local distribution system or electric power system (EPS). ORNL, with assistance from the Electric Power Research Institute-Power Electronics Applications Center (EPRI-PEAC) in Knoxville, Tennessee, monitored and characterized the system compatibility over a period of 6 months. Distribution utility engineers are distrustful of or simply uncomfortable with the protective relaying and hardware provided as part of distributed generation (DG) plants. Part of this mistrust is due to the fact that utilities generally rely on hardware from certain manufacturers whose reliability is well established based on performance over many years or even decades. Another source of concern is the fact that fuel cells and other types of DG do not use conventional relays but, instead, the protective functions of conventional relays are simulated by digital circuits in the distributed generator's grid interface control unit. Furthermore, the testing and validation of internal protection circuits of DG are difficult to accomplish and can be changed by the vendor at any time. This study investigated and documented the safety and protective relaying present in the IFC fuel cell, collected data on the operation of the fuel cell, recorded event data during EPS disturbances, and assessed the compatibility of the synthesized protective circuits and the local distribution system. The project also addressed other important and timely issues. For instance, the study includes an evaluation of the effectiveness of the fuel cell's synthesized relay protection scheme relative to the recently issued IEEE 1547 interconnection standard. Together, these activities should serve to reduce the number of unknowns pertaining to unconventional protective circuits, to the benefit of DG manufacturers, vendors, prospective and current users of DG, and electricity suppliers/distributors. Although more grid-connect fuel cell interruptions were encountered in this study than originally anticipated, and the investigation and findings became quite complex, every effort was made to clearly summarize the interconnection causes and issues throughout the report and especially in the summary found in Sect. 4. ORNL's funding of this study is sponsored equally by (1) the Department of Energy's (DOE's) Office of Distributed Energy Resources and (2) the Distributed Generation Technologies program of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
Staunton, R.H.
The comparison of three photovoltaic system designs using the photovoltaic reliability and performance model (PV-RPM).
Most photovoltaic (PV) performance models currently available are designed to use irradiance and weather data and predict PV system output using a module or array performance model and an inverter model. While these models can give accurate results, they do so for an idealized system. That is, a system that does not experience component failures or outages. We have developed the Photovoltaic Reliability and Performance Model (PV-RPM) to more accurately model these PV systems by including a reliability component that simulates failures and repairs of the components of the system, as well as allow for the disruption of the system by external events such as lightning or grid disturbances. In addition, a financial component has also been included to help assess the profitability of a PV system.
Miller, Steven P.; Granata, Jennifer E.; Stein, Joshua S.
Solar PV Project Financing: Regulatory and Legislative Challenges for Third-Party PPA System Owners
Residential and commercial end users of electricity who want to generate electricity using on-site solar photovoltaic (PV) systems face challenging initial and O&M costs. The third-party ownership power purchase agreement (PPA) finance model addresses these and other challenges. It allows developers to build and own PV systems on customers? properties and sell power back to customers. However, third-party electricity sales commonly face five regulatory challenges. The first three challenges involve legislative or regulatory definitions of electric utilities, power generation equipment, and providers of electric services. These definitions may compel third-party owners of solar PV systems to comply with regulations that may be cost prohibitive. Third-party owners face an additional challenge if they may not net meter, a practice that provides significant financial incentive to owning solar PV systems. Finally, municipalities and cooperatives worry about the regulatory implications of allowing an entity to sell electricity within their service territories. This paper summarizes these challenges, when they occur, and how they have been addressed in five states. This paper also presents alternative to the third-party ownership PPA finance model, including solar leases, contractual intermediaries, standardized contract language, federal investment tax credits, clean renewable energy bonds, and waived monopoly powers.
Kollins, K.; Speer, B.; Cory, K.
factor satisfies aesthetic demands for general rooftop solar technologies, and is a marked departure fromA 20-SUN HYBRID PV-THERMAL LINEAR MICRO-CONCENTRATOR SYSTEM FOR URBAN ROOFTOP APPLICATIONS D Walter has been developed specifically for urban rooftop environments. The light- weight, low-profile form
Analysis of concentrating PV-T systems for the commercial/industrial sector. Volume III. Technical issues and design guidance
This report provide appropriate guidance for addressing the major technical issues associated with the design and installation of a photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) system. Nomographs are presented for developing preliminary sizing and costing, and issues associated with specific components and the overall design of the electrical and mechanical system are discussed. SAND82-7157/2 presents a review of current PV-T technology and operating systems and a study of potential PV-T applications. Detailed PV-T system designs for three selected applications and the results of a trade-off study for these applications are presented in SAND82-7157/4. A summary of the major results of this entire study and conclusions concerning PV-T systems and applications is presented in SAND82-7157/1.
Schwinkendorf, W.E.
Study of photovoltaic cost elements. Volume 4. Installation cost model for residential PV systems: users manual. Final report
A quantitative methodology is presented for estimating installation costs of residential photovoltaic systems. The Installation Cost Model for Residential PV Systems is comprised of 144 estimating equations selectively exercised, based on user definition of the system. At the input stage, Residential PV systems can be fully described by 9 design option categories and 9 system specification categories. All assumptions have been validated with installers of solar thermal systems and with TB and A's Architects and Engineers Division. A discussion of the model is included as well as an example of its use with an 8 KW PV system for a Southwest All-Electric Residential design.
Panel: Microgrid Research and Field Testing IEEE PES General Meeting, 24-28 June 2007, Tampa, FL 1 In general, a microgrid can operate in both the grid-connected
Panel: Microgrid Research and Field Testing IEEE PES General Meeting, 24-28 June 2007, Tampa, FL 1 Abstract In general, a microgrid can operate in both the grid-connected mode and the islanded mode where the microgrid is interfaced to the main power system by a fast semiconductor switch called static switch, (SS
Battery and charge controller evaluations in small stand-alone PV systems
We report the results of to separate long-term tests of batteries and charge controllers in small stand-alone PV systems. In these experiments, seven complete systems were tested for two years at each of two locations: Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque and the Florida Solar Energy Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. Each system contained a PV array, flooded-lead-acid battery, a charge controller and a resistive load. Performance of the systems was strongly influenced by the difference in solar irradiance at the two sites, with some batteries at Sandia exceeding manufacturer`s predictions for cycle life. System performance was strongly correlated with regulation reconnect voltage (R{sup 2} correlation coefficient = 0.95) but only weakly correlated with regulation voltage. We will also discuss details of system performance, battery lifetime and battery water consumption.
Woodworth, J.R.; Thomas, M.G.; Stevens, J.W. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Dunlop, J.L.; Swamy, M.R.; Demetrius, L. [Florida Solar Energy Center, Cape Canaveral, FL (United States); Harrington, S.R. [K-Tech Corp., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
In order to make a PV power generation system survive as an economically viable option against other renewable energy sources, drastic reduction of energy cost is inevitable. The authors have been working on the development of a unique PV system to reduce total system cost including solar panel, power conversion unit and installation work [I]. In the proposed concept, AC photovoltaic device and adhesive mounting method were introduced for the dedicated use in power station. By introducing this concept, it is feasible that the system cost will be reduced to 113 compared to the conventional system. The authors believe that the concept is suitable for very large-scale PV systems in desert areas. 1.
Kimitoshi Fukae; Akiharu Takabayashi; Shigenori Itoyama; Ichiro Kataoka; Hidehisa Makita; Masaaki Matsushita; Takaaki Mukai; Nobuyoshi Takehara; Masaki Konishi
DOE Hydrogen Analysis Repository: PV-Hydrogen System Simulator...
Approach: The photovoltaic hydrogen system has a photovoltaic array with an optional maximum power point tracker that supplies electrical energy to the system. This electrical...
3% of the total sales price of non-PV homes. In the absenceModels Fig. 1: CA PV home sale price premiums expressed inthe selling prices of 329 homes with PV installed in the San
Linkage to Previous International PV Module QA Task Force Workshops; Proposal for Rating System (Presentation)
This presentation gives the historical background of the creation of the International PV QA Task Force as an introduction to the PV Module Reliability Workshop.
Kurtz, S.; Wohlgemuth, J.; Sample, T.; Yamamichi, M.; Kondo, M.
Market Assessment of Residential Grid-Tied PV Systems in Colorado
This report presents research done in response to a decision by the Colorado Governor's Office of Energy Conservation and Management (OEC) and Colorado utility companies to consider making residential grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) systems available in Colorado. The idea was to locate homeowners willing to pay the costs of grid-tied PV (GPV) systems without batteries-$8,000 or $12,000 for a 2- or 3-kilowatt (kW) system, respectively, in 1996. These costs represented two-thirds of the actual installed cost of $6 per watt at that time and assumed the remainder would be subsidized. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and OEC partnered to conduct a market assessment for GPV technology in Colorado. The study encompassed both qualitative and quantitative phases. The market assessment concluded that a market for residential GPV systems exists in Colorado today. That market is substantial enough for companies to successfully market PV systems to Colorado homeowners. These homeo wners appear ready to learn more, inform themselves, and actively purchase GPV systems. The present situation is highly advantageous to Colorado's institutions-primarily its state government and its utility companies, and also its homebuilders-if they are ready to move forward on GPV technology.
Farhar, B.; Coburn, T.
A Market Assessment of Residential Grid-Tied PV Systems in Colorado: Executive Summary
This is the Executive Summary of a report that presents research done in response to a decision by the Colorado Governor's Office of Energy Conservation and Management (OEC) and Colorado utility companies to consider making residential grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) systems available in Colorado. The idea was to locate homeowners willing to pay the costs of grid-tied PV (GPV) systems without batteries--$8,000 or $12,000 for a 2- or 3-kilowatt (kW) system, respectively, in 1996. These costs represented two-thirds of the actual installed cost of $6 per watt at that time and assumed the remainder would be subsidized. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and OEC partnered to conduct a market assessment for GPV technology in Colorado. The study encompassed both qualitative and quantitative phases. The market assessment concluded that a market for residential GPV systems exists in Colorado today. That market is substantial enough for companies to successfully market PV systems to Colorado homeowners. These homeowners appear ready to learn more, inform themselves, and actively purchase GPV systems. The present situation is highly advantageous to Colorado's institutions--primarily its state government and its utility companies, and also its homebuilders--if they are ready to move forward on GPV technology.
Building Energy Software Tools Directory: PVSYST
sizing, PV system simulation, grid-connected PV systems, stand-alone PV systems, shading, solar tools ValidationTesting Performed for 7 installations in Switzerland. Detailed...
Design, fabrication, and certification of advanced modular PV power systems. Final technical progress report
Solar Electric Specialties Company (SES) has completed a two and a half year effort under the auspices of the US Department of Energy (DOE) PVMaT (Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology) project. Under Phase 4A1 of the project for Product Driven System and Component Technology, the SES contract ``Design, Fabrication and Certification of Advanced Modular PV Power Systems`` had the goal to reduce installed system life cycle costs through development of certified (Underwriters Laboratories or other listing) and standardized prototype products for two of the product lines, MAPPS{trademark} (Modular Autonomous PV Power Supply) and Photogensets{trademark}. MAPPS are small DC systems consisting of Photovoltaic modules, batteries and a charge controller and producing up to about a thousand watt-hours per day. Photogensets are stand-alone AC systems incorporating a generator as backup for the PV in addition to a DC-AC inverter and battery charger. The program tasks for the two-year contract consisted of designing and fabricating prototypes of both a MAPPS and a Photogenset to meet agency listing requirements using modular concepts that would support development of families of products, submitting the prototypes for listing, and performing functionality testing at Sandia and NREL. Both prototypes were candidates for UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listing. The MAPPS was also a candidate for FM (Factory Mutual) approval for hazardous (incendiary gases) locations.
Lambarski, T.; Minyard, G. [Solar Electric Specialties Co., Willits, CA (United States)
Solar PV Project Financing: Regulatory and Legislative Challenges for Third-Party PPA System Owners (Revised)
23 23 Revised February 2010 Solar PV Project Financing: Regulatory and Legislative Challenges for Third-Party PPA System Owners Katharine Kollins Duke University Bethany Speer and Karlynn Cory National Renewable Energy Laboratory National Renewable Energy Laboratory 1617 Cole Boulevard, Golden, Colorado 80401-3393 303-275-3000 * www.nrel.gov NREL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC Contract No. DE-AC36-08-GO28308 Technical Report NREL/TP-6A2-46723 Revised February 2010 Solar PV Project Financing: Regulatory and Legislative Challenges for Third-Party PPA System Owners Katharine Kollins Duke University Bethany Speer and Karlynn Cory
Benchmarking Soft Costs for PV Systems in the United States (Presentation)
This paper presents results from the first U.S. based data collection effort to quantify non-hardware, business process costs for PV systems at the residential and commercial scales, using a bottom-up approach. Annual expenditure and labor hour productivity data are analyzed to benchmark business process costs in the specific areas of: (1) customer acquisition; (2) permitting, inspection, and interconnection; (3) labor costs of third party financing; and (4) installation labor.
Ardani, K.
Measured Performance of California Buydown Program Residential PV Systems
, on average, 62 percent of nominal DC module size. For non-tracking systems, average annual energy production annual energy production per unit of nominal DC module size is approximately 1,100 kWh/year. Both Economic Research, Inc. Sanford Miller, California Energy Commission ABSTRACT More than two thousand small
GAP analysis towards a design qualification standard development for grid-connected photovoltaic inverters.
A dedicated design qualification standard for PV inverters does not exist. Development of a well-accepted design qualification standard, specifically for PV inverters will significantly improve the reliability and performance of inverters. The existing standards for PV inverters such as ANSI/UL 1741 and IEC 62109-1 primarily focus on safety of PV inverters. The IEC 62093 discusses inverter qualification but it includes all the BOS components. There are other general standards for distributed generators including the IEEE 1547 series of standards which cover major concerns like utility integration but they are not dedicated to PV inverters and are not written from a design qualification point of view. In this paper some of the potential requirements for a design qualification standard for PV inverters are addressed. The missing links in existing PV inverter related standards are identified and with the IEC 62093 as a guideline, the possible inclusions in the framework for a dedicated design qualification standard of PV inverter are discussed. Some of the key missing links are related to electric stress tests. Hence, a method to adapt the existing surge withstand test standards for use in design qualification standard of PV inverter is presented.
Tamizhmani, Govindasamy (Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ); Granata, Jennifer E.; Maracas, George (Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ); Ayyanar, Raja (Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ); Marinella, Matthew; Venkataramanan, Sai Balasubramanian Alampoondi (Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ)
Robust control strategy for PV system integration in distribution systems M.J. Hossain a,
(PV) near Baker Application complete POD received. EIS required 5101 pending CACA 48742 9,600 MUC: Moderate 1,000 Mw Photovoltaic (PV) Silurian Valley Application complete POD received. EIS required 5101 POD received. EIS required 5101 pending Pending Solar Investments LLC (G-S) 01/18/2007 8,000 MUC
Pota, Himanshu Roy
Design, Fabrication, and Certification of Advanced Modular PV Power Systems Final Technical Progress Report
This report describes the overall accomplishments and benefits of Solar Electric Specialties Co. (SES) under this Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology (PVMaT) subcontract. SES addressed design issues related to their modular autonomous PV power supply (MAPPS) and a mobile photogenset. MAPPS investigations included gel-cell batteries mounted horizontally; redesign of the SES power supply; modified battery enclosure for increased safety and reduced cost; programmable, interactive battery charge controllers; and UL and FM listings. The photogenset systems incorporate generators, battery storage, and PV panels for a mobile power supply. The unit includes automatic oil-change systems for the propane generators, collapsible array mounts for the PV enclosure, and internal stowage of the arrays. Standardizing the products resulted in product lines of MAPPS and Photogensets that can be produced more economically and with shorter lead times, while increasing product quality and reliability. Product assembly and quality control have also been improved and streamlined with the development of standardized assembly processes and QC testing procedures. SES offers the UL-listed MAPPS at about the same price as its previous non-standardized, unlisted products.
Lambarski, T.; Minyard, G. (Solar Electric Specialties Co., Willits, California)
Economic Analysis of a Brackish Water Photovoltaic-Operated (BWRO-PV) Desalination System: Preprint
The photovoltaic (PV)-powered reverse-osmosis (RO) desalination system is considered one of the most promising technologies in producing fresh water from both brackish and sea water, especially for small systems located in remote areas. We analyze the economic viability of a small PV-operated RO system with a capacity of 5 m3/day used to desalinate brackish water of 4000 ppm total dissolve solids, which is proposed to be installed in a remote area of the Babylon governorate in the middle of Iraq; this area possesses excellent insolation throughout the year. Our analysis predicts very good economic and environmental benefits of using this system. The lowest cost of fresh water achieved from using this system is US $3.98/ m3, which is very reasonable compared with the water cost reported by small-sized desalination plants installed in rural areas in other parts of the world. Our analysis shows that using this small system will prevent the release annually of 8,170 kg of CO2, 20.2 kg of CO, 2.23 kg of CH, 1.52 kg of particulate matter, 16.41 kg of SO2, and 180 kg of NOx.
Al-Karaghouli, A.; Kazmerski, L. L.
Third-Party Finance for Commercial Photovoltaic Systems: The Rise of the PPA
Installations of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems in the United States have increased dramatically in recent years, growing from less than 20 MW in 2000 to nearly 500 MW at the end of 2007, a compound average annual growth rate of 59%. Of particular note is the increasing contribution of 'non-residential' grid-connected PV systems--defined here as those systems installed on the customer (rather than utility) side of the meter at commercial, institutional, non-profit, or governmental properties--to the overall growth trend. Although there is some uncertainty in the numbers, non-residential PV capacity grew from less than half of aggregate annual capacity installations in 2000-2002 to nearly two-thirds in 2007. This relative growth trend is expected to have continued through 2008. This article, which is excerpted from a longer report, focuses specifically on just one subset of the non-residential PV market: systems hosted (and perhaps owned) by commercial, tax-paying entities. Tax-exempt entities (e.g., non-profits or municipalities) face unique issues and have different financing options at their disposal; readers interested in PV financing options for tax-exempt entities can find more information in the Bolinger report.
Utility District (SMUD) Xcel Energy Connecticut Clean EnergyCA � LADWP CA � SMUD CO � Xcel CT � CCEF Small PV ProgramCA � LADWP CA � SMUD CO � Xcel CT � CCEF Small PV Program
Clean Energy Group), Mike Taylor Designing PV IncentiveClean Energy States Alliance C ASE S TUDIES OF S TATE S UPPORT FOR R ENEWABLE E NERGY Designing PV Incentive
Grid connection of wave power farm using an N-level cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter
An N-level cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter is proposed for grid connection of large wave power farms. The point-absorber wave energy converters are individually rectified and used as isolated DC-sources. The variable power characteristics of the ...
Rickard Ekstr�m, Mats Leijon
Pv =PYv
... Where pv is partial pressure of vapor, yv is mole fraction of vapor, and P ... Therefore, the organic compound should be stored in the liquid form in the ...
Mitigation of Voltage and Current Harmonics in Grid-Connected Microgrids Savaghebi, Mehdi; Guerro, Josep M.; Jalilian, Alireza ; Quintero, Juan Carlos Vasquez
Mitigation of Voltage and Current Harmonics in Grid-Connected Microgrids Savaghebi, Mehdi; Guerro-Connected Microgrids. In Proceedings of the 21st IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics (ISIE), 2012;Mitigation of Voltage and Current Harmonics in Grid-Connected Microgrids Mehdi Savaghebi1 , Josep M. Guerrero
Recent Progress and Future Potential for Concentrating Photovoltaic Power Systems: Preprint
This paper explores the potential of utility-scale PV power, and, specifically, the opportunity that may arise for concentrating photovoltaics (CPV). In the 1990s, sales of PV modules were dominated by small-size applications such as PV-powered water pumping, emergency telephones, and calculators. More recently, the dramatic growth in the PV industry has been fueled by rooftop systems, especially in Japan and Germany. Such subsidized, grid-connected PV systems are likely to drive PV markets in coming years. Distributed systems deliver power where it is needed, avoiding transmission losses; and residential and commercial systems can be financed along with the rest of a building. Japan and Germany continue to provide market incentives because of their belief in PV's long-term benefits. As successful and important as the rooftop market is for PV sales today, the PV industry will be able to penetrate a larger fraction of the electricity market if PV systems are also used in larger installations, such as utility-owned systems, PV parks, and customer-owned systems. Because retail electricity costs more than wholesale electricity, it is often assumed that PV will address, with incentives, the retail market long before the wholesale market. Here, we show data suggesting that they can grow together. CPV, which uses low-cost lenses or mirrors to focus sunlight on high-efficiency solar cells, has often been presented as a lower-cost approach to utility-scale PV power. Although CPV typically does not compete in rooftop or other current PV markets, CPV could be a major player in a utility-scale market.
Kurtz, S.; Lewandowski, A.; Hayden, H.
Assessment of Rooftop and Building-Integrated PV Systems for Distributed Generation
Photovoltaics (PV) is the technology of solar cells -- solid-state devices that directly, silently, and cleanly convert solar energy into electricity. Although commercially available for many years, PV technology has only recently become sufficiently affordable and efficient to be a practical alternative or supplement to conventional grid power. PV devices are commonly mounted on a structure's rooftop, but are increasingly integrated into building components such as siding, glass, or roof tiles. This rep...
Modeling, analysis and neural MPPT control design of a PV-generator powered dc motor-pump system
This paper presents the optimization of a photovoltaic (PV) water pumping system using maximum power point tracking technique (MPPT). The optimization is suspended to reference optimal power. This optimization technique is developed to assure the optimum ... Keywords: artificial neural network controller, drive systems, maximum power point tracking, photovoltaic
Ahmed. M. Kassem
Development of a model for physical and economical optimization of distributed PV systems.
?? There are a number of factors that influence both the physical and the economical performance of a photovoltaic solar energy (PV) installation. The aim� (more)
N�svall, David
Comparison of Photovoltaic Models in the System Advisor Model: Preprint
The System Advisor Model (SAM) is free software developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) for predicting the performance of renewable energy systems and analyzing the financial feasibility of residential, commercial, and utility-scale grid-connected projects. SAM offers several options for predicting the performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The model requires that the analyst choose from three PV system models, and depending on that choice, possibly choose from three module and two inverter component models. To obtain meaningful results from SAM, the analyst must be aware of the differences between the model options and their applicability to different modeling scenarios. This paper presents an overview the different PV model options and presents a comparison of results for a 200-kW system using different model options.
Blair, N. J.; Dobos, A. P.; Gilman, P.
Residential, Commercial, and Utility-Scale Photovoltaic (PV) System Prices in the United States: Current Drivers and Cost-Reduction Opportunities
The price of photovoltaic (PV) systems in the United States (i.e., the cost to the system owner) has dropped precipitously in recent years, led by substantial reductions in global PV module prices. However, system cost reductions are not necessarily realized or realized in a timely manner by many customers. Many reasons exist for the apparent disconnects between installation costs, component prices, and system prices; most notable is the impact of fair market value considerations on system prices. To guide policy and research and development strategy decisions, it is necessary to develop a granular perspective on the factors that underlie PV system prices and to eliminate subjective pricing parameters. This report's analysis of the overnight capital costs (cash purchase) paid for PV systems attempts to establish an objective methodology that most closely approximates the book value of PV system assets.
Goodrich, A.; James, T.; Woodhouse, M.
Analysis of concentrating PV-T systems for the commercial/industrial sector. Volume II. PV-T state-of-the-art survey and site/application pair selection and analysis
As part of a project to develop feasibility assessments, design procedures, and reference designs for total energy systems that could use actively cooled concentrating photovoltaic collectors, a survey was conducted to provide an overview of available photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) technology. General issues associated with the design and installation of a PV-T system are identified. Electrical and thermal efficiencies for the line-focus Fresnel, the linear parabolic trough, and the point-focus Fresnel collectors are specified as a function of operating temperature, ambient temperature, and insolation. For current PV-T technologies, the line-focus Fresnel collector proved to have the highest thermal and electrical efficiencies, lowest array cost, and lowest land area requirement. But a separate feasibility analysis involving 11 site/application pairs showed that for most applications, the cost of the photovoltaic portion of a PV-T system is not recovered through the displacement of an electrical load, and use of a thermal-only system to displace the thermal load would be a more economical alternative. PV-T systems are not feasible for applications that have a small thermal load, a large steam requirement, or a high load return temperature. SAND82-7157/3 identifies the technical issues involved in designing a photovoltaic-thermal system and provides guidance for resolving such issues. Detailed PV-T system designs for three selected applications and the results of a trade-off study for these applications are presented in SAND82-7157/4. A summary of the major results of this entire study and conclusions concerning PV-T systems and applications is presented in SAND82-7157/1.
Development of A Fully Integrated PV System for Residential Applications: PVMaT5a Final Report, 18 December 2001
This report describes both the Utility Power Group (UPG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Kyocera Solar, Inc., and Xantrex Technology Inc., have designed, assembled, and tested a new photovoltaic (PV) power system for residential rooftops to meet the goal of a readily manufacturable product that will increase US domestic PV power system production and installed capacity, by reducing the total installed cost and increasing the reliability of residential rooftop mounted PV power systems. A new factory pre-fabricated PV array system was developed, and 80 have been installed on the residential rooftops using standard metal parts. The direct material and labor cost of the array installation has been reduced to $3.79 per square foot for a 2400W installation. A modular, maintenance free, battery-based Power Unit and Energy Storage Unit (power conditioning and control) have also been developed. The design, fabrication, and testing have been completed for two prototypes of this system. These products have been evaluated for their structural integrity, electrical performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability. The direct material and labor cost of the Power Unit has been reduced to $0.34 per watt. The 13 kW-hr Energy Storage Unit (ESU) has been UL listed.
Oatman, J.; West, R.
PV Incentive Program
Energy.gov (U.S. Department of Energy (DOE))
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) provides an incentive of $1.40 per watt (DC) to eligible installers for the installation of approved, grid-connected...
PV FAQs: What Is the Energy Payback for PV?
How long does a PV system have to operate to recover the energy-and the associated generation of pollution and CO2- that went into making the system? Energy paybacks for rooftop systems range from 1 to 4 years, depending on the system. Based on models and real data, the idea that PV cannot pay back its energy investment is simply a myth.
Advanced polymer PV system: PVMaT 4A1 annual report, September 1995--September 1996
Purpose of this subcontract was to produce lower module and systems costs through the innovative use of polymeric materials. The Innovative Mounting System (IMS) was developed and testing begun during the first year of this contract. IMS reduces the cost of installed PV systems by reducing labor and materials costs both in the factory and in field installation. It incorporates several advances in polymers, processing methods and product design. An advanced backskin material permits elimination of the conventional Al perimeter frame by protecting and sealing the edge and by direct bonding of multifunctional mounting bars. Electrical interconnection is easier and more reliable with a new junction box. Feasibility of a non-vacuum, high-throughput lamination method was also demonstrated, involving a novel transparent encapsulant with UV stabilization package that can be laminated in air and which should lead to longer field life than conventional designs. The first-year program culminated in the fielding of prototype products with the new encapsulant, backskin, junction box, frameless edge seal, and IMS. Feedback and marketing information from potential customers were solicited. Result promises a $0.50/watt manufacturing and system cost reductions as well as increased system lifetime. The second year will complete refinement and test of the encapsulant and backskin, complete the new lamination method, and refine product designs.
Hanoka, J.; Chleboski, R.; Farber, M.; Fava, J.; Kane, P.; Martz, J. [Evergreen Solar, Inc., Waltham, MA (United States)
System Voltage Potential-Induced Degradation Mechanisms in PV Modules and Methods for Test: Preprint
Over the past decade, degradation and power loss have been observed in PV modules resulting from the stress exerted by system voltage bias. This is due in part to qualification tests and standards that do not adequately evaluate for the durability of modules to the long-term effects of high voltage bias experienced in fielded arrays. High voltage can lead to module degradation by multiple mechanisms. The extent of the voltage bias degradation is linked to the leakage current or coulombs passed from the silicon active layer through the encapsulant and glass to the grounded module frame, which can be experimentally determined; however, competing processes make the effect non-linear and history-dependent. Appropriate testing methods and stress levels are described that demonstrate module durability to system voltage potential-induced degradation (PID) mechanisms. This information, along with outdoor testing that is in progress, is used to estimate the acceleration factors needed to evaluate the durability of modules to system voltage stress. Na-rich precipitates are observed on the cell surface after stressing the module to induce PID in damp heat with negative bias applied to the active layer.
Hacke, P.; Terwilliger, K.; Smith, R.; Glick, S.; Pankow, J.; Kempe, M.; Kurtz, S.; Bennett, I.; Kloos, M.
Grid-Competitive Residential and Commercial Fully Automated PV Systems Technology: Final technical Report, August 2011
Under DOE's Technology Pathway Partnership program, SunPower Corporation developed turn-key, high-efficiency residential and commercial systems that are cost effective. Key program objectives include a reduction in LCOE values to 9-12 cents/kWh and 13-18 cents/kWh respectively for the commercial and residential markets. Target LCOE values for the commercial ground, commercial roof, and residential markets are 10, 11, and 13 cents/kWh. For this effort, SunPower collaborated with a variety of suppliers and partners to complete the tasks below. Subcontractors included: Solaicx, SiGen, Ribbon Technology, Dow Corning, Xantrex, Tigo Energy, and Solar Bridge. SunPower's TPP addressed nearly the complete PV value chain: from ingot growth through system deployment. Throughout the award period of performance, SunPower has made progress toward achieving these reduced costs through the development of 20%+ efficient modules, increased cell efficiency through the understanding of loss mechanisms and improved manufacturing technologies, novel module development, automated design tools and techniques, and reduced system development and installation time. Based on an LCOE assessment using NREL's Solar Advisor Model, SunPower achieved the 2010 target range, as well as progress toward 2015 targets.
Brown, Katie E.; Cousins, Peter; Culligan, Matt; Jonathan Botkin; DeGraaff, David; Bunea, Gabriella; Rose, Douglas; Bourne, Ben; Koehler, Oliver
Impact of High-Penetration PV on Distribution System Performance: Example Cases and Analysis Approach
High penetration of distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation in the electric grid is beginning to challenge distribution planners and engineers. This technical update discusses the factors that can have a significant impact on a distribution feeder's response to PV generation. The report considers both the circuit and the photovoltaic generation characteristics. The circuit types and characteristics span the expected range of power delivery and control elements. Photovoltaic characteristics include syste...
PV and PV/hybrid products for buildings
Residential, commercial, and industrial buildings combined are the largest consumers of electricity in the United States and represent a significant opportunity for photovoltaic (PV) and PV/hybrid systems. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is conducting a phased research and product development program, Building Opportunities in the United States for Photovoltaics (PV:BONUS), focused on this market sector. The purpose of the program is to develop technologies and foster business arrangements integrating cost-effective PV or hybrid products into buildings. The first phase was completed in 1996 and a second solicitation, PV:BONUS2, was initiated during 1997. These projects are resulting in a variety of building-integrated products. This paper summarizes the recent progress of the seven firms and collaborative teams currently participating in PV:BONUS2 and outlines planned work for the final phase of their work.
Thomas, H. P.; Hayter, S. J.; Martin, R. L., Pierce, L. K.
Design and implementation of a low cost grid-connected 10 kw hydro power system.
??ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The world is increasingly being faced with the challenge of effectively exploiting available renewable energy resources, not only to meet an ever growing� (more)
Lombard, Adriaan Cornelius Johannes
Plug and Play Components for Building-Integrated PV Systems: Phase I--Final Report, 20 February 2002--19 February 2003
This report describes the development by RWE Schott Solar, Inc., of innovative new products to facilitate the broad use of its PV systems in the current markets. RWE manufactures and sells the 300-watt ASE-300 PV module and also provides complete photovoltaic system engineering, design, and turnkey PV system installation services. RWE Schott Solar has many years of experience designing PV arrays and installing them on flat roofs and pitched roofs, and had plans to improve these designs. Specifically, wind-tunnel testing and analyses were needed for the new flat-roof PV array mounting system that avoids roof penetrations. In addition, to simplify large grid-tied PV systems for flat-roof applications, the company's line of wiring junction boxes needed to be updated with new components and higher-power multi-circuit configurations. For pitched-roof residential applications, testing was planned to determine the holding power of three different fasteners in a wide range of wood-sheathing types found in residential construction to help optimize fastening methods. A device for connecting PV to the grid at a meter socket was innovated and is also being developed.
Russell, M. C.
PV FAQs: What's New in Concentrating PV?
This publication, one in a series of PV FAQs, addresses concentrating PV: what it is, how it works, the challenges it faces, recent breakthroughs, and its future direction.
205 kW Photovoltaic (PV) System Installed on the U.S. Department of Energy's Forrestal Building
Project Description Project Description The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005), the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA 2007), and Presidential Executive Order 13423 all contain requirements for Federal facilities to decrease energy consumption and increase the use of renewable energy by the year 2015. To provide leadership in meeting these requirements, DOE, in partnership with the General Services Administration (GSA), has installed a rooftop solar electric, or PV, system on the roof of DOE's headquarters in Washington, D.C. The 205 kilowatt (kW) installation is one of the largest of its kind in the Nation's capital. A display in the For- restal building will show the power output of the PV system during the day and the energy produced over
NREL: Energy Systems Integration - NREL's Energy Systems Integration...
a variety of operating configurations including, grid connected stand-alone microgrids and hybrid power systems. The PSIL can accommodate large power system components...
City of Sunset Valley- PV Rebate Program
The City of Sunset Valley offers rebates to local homeowners who install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their properties. The local rebate acts as an add-on to the PV rebates that are offered by...
Benchmarking Non-Hardware Balance of System (Soft) Costs for U.S. Photovoltaic Systems Using a Data-Driven Analysis from PV Installer Survey Results
This report presents results from the first U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) sponsored, bottom-up data-collection and analysis of non-hardware balance-of-system costs--often referred to as 'business process' or 'soft' costs--for residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Ardani, K.; Barbose, G.; Margolis, R.; Wiser, R.; Feldman, D.; Ong, S.
Photovoltaics as an operating energy system
In the short time since the discovery of the modern solar cell in 1954, terrestrial photovoltaic power system technology has matured in all areas, from collector reliability to system and subsystem design and operations. Today's PV systems are finding widespread use in powering loads where conventional sources are either unavailable, unreliable, or too costly. A broad range of applications is possible because of the modularity of the technology---it can be used to power loads ranging from less than a watt to several megawatts. This inherent modularity makes PV an excellent choice to play a major role in rural electrification in the developing world. The future for grid-connected photovoltaic systems is also very promising. Indications are that several of today's technologies, at higher production rates and in megawatt-sized installations, will generate electricity in the vicinity of $0.12/kWh in the near future. 12 refs., 3 figs.
Jones, G.J.; Post, H.N.; Thomas, M.G.
Improved PV system reliability results from surge evaluations at Sandia National Laboratories
Electrical surges on ac and dc inverter power wiring and diagnostic cables have the potential to shorten the lifetime of power electronics. These surges may be caused by either nearby lightning or capacitor switching transients. This paper contains a description of ongoing surge evaluations of PV power electronics and surge mitigation hardware at Sandia.
Russell H. Bonn; Sigifredo Gonzalez
Grid integrated distributed PV (GridPV).
This manual provides the documentation of the MATLAB toolbox of functions for using OpenDSS to simulate the impact of solar energy on the distribution system. The majority of the functions are useful for interfacing OpenDSS and MATLAB, and they are of generic use for commanding OpenDSS from MATLAB and retrieving information from simulations. A set of functions is also included for modeling PV plant output and setting up the PV plant in the OpenDSS simulation. The toolbox contains functions for modeling the OpenDSS distribution feeder on satellite images with GPS coordinates. Finally, example simulations functions are included to show potential uses of the toolbox functions. Each function in the toolbox is documented with the function use syntax, full description, function input list, function output list, example use, and example output.
Reno, Matthew J.; Coogan, Kyle [Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
PV FAQs: What is the Energy Payback for PV?
How long does a PV system have to operate to recover the energy--and the associated generation of pollution and CO{sub 2}--that went into making the system? Energy paybacks for rooftop systems range from 1 to 4 years, depending on the system. Based on models and real data, the idea that PV cannot pay back its energy investment is simply a myth.
PV ENERGY ROI Tracks Efficiency Gains
PV ENERGY ROI Tracks Efficiency Gains the state of PV today E nergy payback time (EPBT) is the time it takes for a photovoltaic (PV) system to produce all the energy used through- out its life cycle. A short EPBT corre- sponds to a high energy return on energy invest- ment
PV Fact Sheets Argument B1Some people state that "The external costs of PV electricity
University: Solar Cells Lecture 9: PV Systems Several types of operating modes · Centralized power plant or wanted Montana State University: Solar Cells Lecture 9: PV Systems 2 Residential Side Mounted Montana State University: Solar Cells Lecture 9: PV Systems 3 Could have future issues when the tree matures
Interim test methods and procedures for determining the performance of small photovoltaic systems
This document provides test methods and procedures for determining the performance of small stand-alone and utility-grid connected PV systems. The procedures in this document provide a common approach for evaluating whether a given PV system is suitable to perform the function it was designed and manufactured to accomplish and meet the application load. This test document fills a testing void and provides the catalyst and focus for establishing the technical foundation and bridging the institutional barriers needed to reduce uncertainty that a system`s performance will be what its designers and builders claim. The need for this document was recently made more apparent with the initiation of a PV Global Approval Program (PVGAP) at the international level and is in response to concerns that PV systems being fielded must meet performance standards and that these standards include system-level performance type tests. The title of these test procedures is prefaced with the word interim because experience in using the procedures is needed before a consensus standard is developed and accepted by the PV community through its activities with the IEEE Standards Coordinating Committee 21 (SCC21) and International Electrotechnical Commission Technical Committee 82 (IEC TC82) national and international standards-making bodies. Both entities have initiated projects to develop test standards and will need the technical basis and validation of test procedures such as those presented in this document before a consensus is achieved by the PV community.
McNutt, P.; Kroposki, B.; Hansen, R.; DeBlasio, R.
System and Battery Charge Control for PV-Powered AC Lighting Systems
This report reviews a number of issues specific to stand-alone AC lighting systems. A review of AC lighting technology is presented, which discusses the advantages and disadvantages of various lamps. The best lamps for small lighting systems are compact fluorescent. The best lamps for intermediate-size systems are high- or low-pressure sodium. Specifications for battery charging and load control are provided with the goal of achieving lamp lifetimes on the order of 16,000 to 24,000 hours and battery lifetimes of 4 to 5 years. A rough estimate of the potential domestic and global markets for stand-alone AC lighting systems is presented. DC current injection tests were performed on high-pressure sodium lamps and the test results are presented. Finally, a prototype system was designed and a prototype system controller (with battery charger and DC/AC inverter) was developed and built.
Kern, G.
Non-Hardware Non-Hardware Balance of System (Soft) Costs for U.S. Photovoltaic Systems Using a Data-Driven Analysis from PV Installer Survey Results November 2012 Benchmarking Non-Hardware Balance of System (Soft) Costs for U.S. Photovoltaic Systems Using a Data-Driven Analysis from PV Installer Survey Results NREL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC. Contract No. DE-AC36-08GO28308 LBNL's work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy SunShot program under Contract No. DE-AC02-05CH11231 Technical Report DOE/GO-10212-3834 * November 2012 National Renewable Energy Laboratory 15013 Denver West Parkway
Simulation and Experimental Analysis of Grid-Connected Doubly-Fed Induction Generators
With the increase of wind generation penetration in power systems, it becomes more and more important to study its impact on power systems characteristics. The accurate dynamic modeling of wind plants is critical for the grid planning and operating studies. ... Keywords: doubly fed induction generator (DFIG), short-circuit test, model validation, transient stability
Guo Jiayang; Yu Xiao; Wu Tao; Chang Xianrong; Li Shanying; Liu Hui; Sun Yu
Computer simulation of the operations of utility grid connected photovoltaic power plants
In order to evaluate the commercial viability of photovoltaic power systems it is necessary to have reliable estimates and descriptions of the supply of electricity generated by the solar technology, the demand for that electricity, and the market application. ...
Chester S. Borden
Modeling High-Penetration PV for Distribution Analysis
The number of new solar PV interconnections to the distribution system has increased exponentially in recent years. The total installed capacity of PV worldwide increased from 20,000 to 40,000 during 2010. In some areas distribution planners are inundated with interconnection requests for both small-scale residential PV as well as larger, commercial, and centralized PV systems. Many utility companies that have not traditionally experienced a lot of distributed PV requests have within the past few years s...
A study of lead-acid battery efficiency near top-of-charge and the impact on PV system design
Knowledge of the charge efficiency of lead-acid batteries near top-of-charge is important to the design of small photovoltaic systems. In order to know how much energy is required from the photovoltaic array in order to accomplish the task of meeting load, including periodic full battery charge, a detailed knowledge of the battery charging efficiency as a function of state of charge is required, particularly in the high state-of-charge regime, as photovoltaic systems are typically designed to operate in the upper 20 to 30% of battery state-of-charge. This paper presents the results of a process for determining battery charging efficiency near top-of-charge and discusses the impact of these findings on the design of small PV systems.
Stevens, J.W.; Corey, G.P.
Energy 101: Solar PV | Department of Energy
Solar PV Solar PV Energy 101: Solar PV Addthis Description Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems can generate clean, cost-effective power anywhere the sun shines. This video shows how a PV panel converts the energy of the sun into renewable electricity to power homes and businesses. Duration 2:01 Topic Solar Energy Economy Credit Energy Department Video MR. : All right, we all know that the sun's energy creates heat and light. But it can also be converted to make electricity, and lots of it. One technology is called solar photovoltaics or PV for short. You've probably seen PV panels around for years, but recent advancements have greatly improved their efficiency and electrical output. Enough energy from the sun hits the earth every hour to power the planet for an
Definition: PV array | Open Energy Information
PV array PV array Jump to: navigation, search Dictionary.png PV array An interconnected system of PV modules that function as a single electricity-producing unit. In smaller systems, an array can consist of a single module.[1][2] View on Wikipedia Wikipedia Definition A Photovoltaic system (informally, PV system) is an arrangement of components designed to supply usable electric power for a variety of purposes, using the Sun (or, less commonly, other light sources) as the power source. PV systems may be built in various configurations: Off-grid without battery (Array-direct) Off-grid with battery storage for DC-only appliances Off-grid with battery storage for AC & DC appliances Grid-tie without battery Grid-tie with battery storage A photovoltaic array (also called a solar array) consists of multiple photovoltaic modules, casually
Estimating the maximum potential revenue for grid connected electricity storage : arbitrage and regulation.
The valuation of an electricity storage device is based on the expected future cash ow generated by the device. Two potential sources of income for an electricity storage system are energy arbitrage and participation in the frequency regulation market. Energy arbitrage refers to purchasing (stor- ing) energy when electricity prices are low, and selling (discharging) energy when electricity prices are high. Frequency regulation is an ancillary service geared towards maintaining system frequency, and is typically procured by the independent system operator in some type of market. This paper outlines the calculations required to estimate the maximum potential revenue from participating in these two activities. First, a mathematical model is presented for the state of charge as a function of the storage device parameters and the quantities of electricity purchased/sold as well as the quantities o ered into the regulation market. Using this mathematical model, we present a linear programming optimization approach to calculating the maximum potential revenue from an elec- tricity storage device. The calculation of the maximum potential revenue is critical in developing an upper bound on the value of storage, as a benchmark for evaluating potential trading strate- gies, and a tool for capital nance risk assessment. Then, we use historical California Independent System Operator (CAISO) data from 2010-2011 to evaluate the maximum potential revenue from the Tehachapi wind energy storage project, an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) energy storage demonstration project. We investigate the maximum potential revenue from two di erent scenarios: arbitrage only and arbitrage combined with the regulation market. Our analysis shows that participation in the regulation market produces four times the revenue compared to arbitrage in the CAISO market using 2010 and 2011 data. Then we evaluate several trading strategies to illustrate how they compare to the maximum potential revenue benchmark. We conclude with a sensitivity analysis with respect to key parameters.
Byrne, Raymond Harry; Silva Monroy, Cesar Augusto.
Power Systems Integration Laboratory (Fact Sheet)
This fact sheet describes the purpose, lab specifications, applications scenarios, and information on how to partner with NREL's Power Systems Integration Laboratory at the Energy Systems Integration Facility. At NREL's Power Systems Integration Laboratory in the Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF), research focuses on developing and testing large-scale distributed energy systems for grid-connected, stand-alone, and microgrid applications. The laboratory can accommodate large power system components such as inverters for photovoltaic (PV) and wind systems, diesel and natural gas generators, battery packs, microgrid interconnection switchgear, and vehicles. Closely coupled with the research electrical distribution bus at the ESIF, the Power Systems Integration Laboratory will offer power testing capability of megawatt-scale DC and AC power systems, as well as advanced hardware-in-the-loop and model-in-the-loop simulation capabilities. Thermal heating and cooling loops and fuel also allow testing of combined heating/cooling and power systems (CHP).
Extending Performance and Evaluating Risks of PV Systems Failure Using a Fault Tree and Event Tree Approach: Analysis of the Possible Application
Performance and reliability of photovoltaic (PV) systems are important issues in the overall evaluation of a PV plant and its components. While performance is connected to the amount of energy produced by the PV installation in the working environmental conditions, reliability impacts the availability of the system to produce the expected amount of energy. In both cases, the evaluation should be done considering information and data coming from indoor as well as outdoor tests. In this paper a way of re-thinking performance, giving it a probabilistic connotation, and connecting the two concepts of performance and reliability is proposed. The paper follows a theoretical approach and discusses the way to obtaining such information, facing benefits and problems. The proposed probabilistic performance accounts for the probability of the system to function correctly, thus passing through the complementary evaluation of the probability of system malfunctions and consequences. Scenarios have to be identified where the system is not functioning properly or at all. They are expected to be combined in a probabilistic safety analysis (PSA) based approach, providing not only the required probability, but also being capable of giving a prioritization of the risks and the most dominant scenario associated to a specific situation. This approach can offer the possibility to highlight the most critical parts of a PV system, as well as providing support in design activities identifying weak connections.
Colli A.
IAEI NEWS January.February 2008 www.iaei.org ground-fault protection for pv systems
technologies which do not require transmission, such as photovoltaic (PV) generation in urban areas efficiency and clean distributed generating technologies, including PV in urban areas. But even optimistic, geothermal, solar and wind energy development. CREZ identification respected areas specified by RETI
Johnson, Eric E.
Analysis of concentrating PV-T systems for the commercial/industrial sector. Volume IV. Design analysis and trade-off study
Detailed reference designs developed for optimally sized photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) systems are presented for three selected applications. The results of trade-off analyses to determine the effects of load variations, new components, changes in location, and variations in array cost are also discussed.
Development of a fully-integrated PV system for residential applications: Phase I annual technical report: February 27, 1998 -- August 31, 1999
This report describes Utility Power Group's (UPG's) technical progress for Phase 1 of a two-phase effort to focus on the design, assembly, and testing of a fully-integrated residential PV power system, including storage. In the PV Array Task, UPG significantly improved the conventional means and methods required to structurally interface PV modules to the roofs of single-family residential houses and to electrically interconnect these PV modules to a power conversion unit. UPG focused on the design and test of a PV array based on the highly efficient use of materials and labor. Design criteria included cost, structural integrity, electrical safety, reliability, conformance with applicable standards and building and seismic codes, and adaptability to a wide range of roof materials for both existing and retrofit roof applications. In the Power Unit Task, UPG designed and tested a high-efficiency, low-cost, high-reliability prototype power conversion unit that included all materials, components, equipment, and software required to perform all DC-AC/AC-DC power collection, conversion, and control functions between the output of the PV array and the interconnection to the electrical grid service of single-family residences. In the Energy Storage Unit Task, UPG designed and tested a low-cost, modular, self-contained, low-maintenance, all-weather, battery-based Energy Storage Unit designed to interface with the Power Unit to provide back-up electricity to supply critical household loads in the event of utility-grid failure. The Energy Storage Unit includes batteries and all structural, mechanical, and electrical equipment required to provide a source of stored DC energy for input of the Power Unit. UPG designed the storage unit as a ''plug and play'' option, where multiple units can be easily paralleled for additional energy storage capacity.
West, R.; Mackamul, K.; Duran, G.
U.S. On-Grid Photovoltaic Capacity: A Baseline for the National Energy Modeling System: Preprint
How much photovoltaics (PV) is installed in the United States? This basic question poses a data collection challenge, as PV systems are generally small and there is no systematic, nationwide reporting scheme for electric plants under 1 MW in size. This paper presents results and methods from an effort to arrive at an accurate estimate of grid-connected PV capacity and a database of installations underlying this number. Two main products resulted from these efforts, the first being a spreadsheet summarizing knowledge of PV capacity in the U.S. The second product, presented in this paper, is a database of PV installations, yielding a total on-grid capacity of 26.6 MW at the end of 2000. Compared to sources giving an upper bound of between 30 and 40 MW for cumulative on-grid PV capacity in the U.S., 26.6 MW is still low, but this number is the largest to date that is based on a database of installations.
Price, S.; Herig, C.; Goldstein, H. L.; Gillette, L.; Boedecker, E.; Holihan, J.
AC/DC Smart Control and Power Sharing of DC Distribution Systems.
?? The purpose of this research is to develop a grid connected DC distribution system to ensure efficient integration of different alternate sources to the� (more)
Elshaer, Mohamed A
PV output smoothing with energy storage.
This report describes an algorithm, implemented in Matlab/Simulink, designed to reduce the variability of photovoltaic (PV) power output by using a battery. The purpose of the battery is to add power to the PV output (or subtract) to smooth out the high frequency components of the PV power that that occur during periods with transient cloud shadows on the PV array. The control system is challenged with the task of reducing short-term PV output variability while avoiding overworking the battery both in terms of capacity and ramp capability. The algorithm proposed by Sandia is purposely very simple to facilitate implementation in a real-time controller. The control structure has two additional inputs to which the battery can respond. For example, the battery could respond to PV variability, load variability or area control error (ACE) or a combination of the three.
Ellis, Abraham; Schoenwald, David Alan
Outdoor PV Degradation Comparison
As photovoltaic (PV) penetration of the power grid increases, it becomes vital to know how decreased power output; may affect cost over time. In order to predict power delivery, the decline or degradation rates must be determined; accurately. At the Performance and Energy Rating Testbed (PERT) at the Outdoor Test Facility (OTF) at the; National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) more than 40 modules from more than 10 different manufacturers; were compared for their long-term outdoor stability. Because it can accommodate a large variety of modules in a; limited footprint the PERT system is ideally suited to compare modules side-by-side under the same conditions.
Jordan, D. C.; Smith, R. M.; Osterwald, C. R.; Gelak, E.; Kurtz, S. R.
The Impact of Retail Rate Structures on the Economics of Customer-Sited PV: A Study of Commercial Installations in California
the PV production profile, increases with the price ratio.off-peak prices. Customers who plan to install PV systems (
PV FAQs: What Is the Energy Payback for PV? Solar Energy Technologies...
energy is clean, abundant, reliable, and affordable Reaping the environmental benefits of solar energy requires spending energy to make the PV system. But as this graphic shows,...
NREL: Photovoltaics Research - PV News
PV News PV News The National Renewable Energy Laboratory Photovoltaic (PV) Research Program highlights latest research and news accomplishments from the laboratory on this page. Subscribe to the RSS feed RSS . Learn about RSS. November 8, 2013 New Solar Cell Is More Efficient, Less Costly Innovation by NREL and First Solar acquisition TetraSun wins a 2013 R&D 100 Award. November 6, 2013 NREL's Energy Systems Integration Facility Garners LEED® Platinum The Energy Systems Integration Facility (ESIF) on the campus of the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colo., has earned a LEED® Platinum designation for new construction from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a non-profit organization dedicated to sustainable building design and construction.
94 IAEI NEWS November.December 2008 www.iaei.org a top to bottom perspective on a pv system
by professional engineers. PV arrays may add up to 45 pounds per square foot of dead weight to the roof struc inverters (lower cost, less weight, higher efficiency) (NEC 690.35). Although the electrical connectors
Requirements for a Standard Test to Rate the Durability of PV Modules at System Voltage (Presentation)
Degradation modes in photovoltaic modules under system bias voltage stress are described and classified.
Hacke, P.; Terwilliger, K.; Glick, S.; Kempe, M.; Kurtz, S.; Bennett, I.; Kloos, M.
Accelerating PV Cost Effectiveness Through Systems Design, Engineering, and Quality Assurance: Phase I Annual Technical Report, 4 November 2004 - 3 November 2005
During Phase I of this PV Manufacturing R&D subcontract, PowerLight Corporation has made significant progress toward the reduction of installed costs for commercial-scale, rooftop PV systems. PowerLight has worked to reduce operating costs by improving long-term reliability and performance through the development of more sophisticated tools used in system design and monitoring. Additionally, PowerLight has implemented design improvements with the goal of reducing cost while maintaining and/or improving product quality. As part of this effort, PowerLight also modified manufacturing and shipping processes to accommodate these design changes, streamline material flow, reduce cost, and decrease waste streams. During Phase II of this project, PowerLight plans to continue this work with the goal of reducing system cost and improving system performance.
Design, fabrication, and certification of advanced modular PV power systems. Annual technical progress report, 8 September 1995--7 September 1996
This report summarizes the activities performed during the first year of a nominal 2-year effort by Solar Electric Specialties Company (SES) under the Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology (PVMaT) project of the National Photovoltaic Program. The goal of the SES contract is to reduce the installed system life-cycle costs by developing certified and standardized prototype products for two SES product lines--MAPPS{trademark} and Photogenset{trademark}. The MAPPS (modular autonomous PV power supply) systems are used for DC applications up to about a thousand watt-hours. The Photogensets are hybrid PV/generator systems for AC applications. SES expects these products to provide the basis for future commercial product lines of standardized certified, packaged systems.
Lambarski, T.; Minyard, G. [Solar Electric Specialties, Willits, CA (United States)
Southern Company Photovoltaic Evaluation in Atlanta: Analysis of Field Data from Seven 4-kW PV Systems at Georgia Power Headquarters During 2010�2012
Seven photovoltaic (PV) power systems using different module technologies were installed on the rooftop of Georgia Power�s headquarters in Atlanta. This report describes the output performance of these small-scale systems (about 4 kW each) relative to the available solar resource at the site. The main objective of this evaluation has been to assess performance characteristics of commercially available module technologies in a southeastern U.S. climate. To ensure a reliable comparison, all ...
PV based solar insolation measuring device
The aim of the project is to develop mathematical model of the relationship between incoming solar insolation and PV module output current and temperature. Solar insolation need to be measured in order to optimize the design of solar electricity generating system (SEGS). PV module sizing
Balbir Singh Mahinder Singh; Nor Athirah Zainal
Field investigation of the relationship between battery size and PV system performance
Four photovoltaic-powered lighting systems were installed in a National Forest Service campground in June of 1991. These systems have identical arrays, loads and charge controllers. The only difference was in the rated capacity of the battery bank for each system. The battery banks all use the same basic battery as a building block with the four systems utilizing either one battery, two batteries, three batteries or four batteries. The purpose of the experiment is to examine the effect of the various battery sizes on the ability of the system to charge the battery, energy available to the load, and battery lifetime. Results show an important trend in system performance concerning the impact of charge controllers on the relation between array size and battery size which results in an inability to achieve the days of battery storage originally designed for.
Stevens, J.; Kratochvil, J. [Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States); Harrington, S. [Ktech Corp., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Dependence of delivered energy on power conditioner electrical characteristics for utility-interactive PV systems
In a utility-interactive photovoltaic system, the electrical characteristics of the dc-to-ac power-conditioning unit (inverter) influence the quantity of electrical energy delivered by the system, and therefore, affect the user worth of the system. An analysis of the effect of relevant inverter electrical characteristics on the quantity of system-delivered energy is undertaken using computer simulations of system behavior. Significant conclusions are that: (1) the annual system performance advantage of maximum-power-point voltage tracking is small compared with fixed-dc-input voltage operation; (2) low levels of inverter ac-power consumption during times of zero insolation can significantly degrade system performance; (3) the effect of small changes in the array-to-inverter size ratio on the user worth of the system is small; and (4) most of the system energy is delivered at power levels greater than one-half of the nominal array rating, and consequently, the inverter low-power efficiency is less important than is its full-power efficiency. A formula that approximates the inverter annual throughput efficiency with only four laboratory measurements on the inverter is presented.
Rasmussen, N.E.; Branz, H.M.
Testing and Analysis for Lifetime Prediction of Crystalline Silicon PV Modules Undergoing Degradation by System Voltage Stress: Preprint
Acceleration factors are calculated for crystalline silicon PV modules under system voltage stress by comparing the module power during degradation outdoors to that in accelerated testing at three temperatures and 85% relative humidity. A lognormal analysis is applied to the accelerated lifetime test data considering failure at 80% of the initial module power. Activation energy of 0.73 eV for the rate of failure is determined, and the probability of module failure at an arbitrary temperature is predicted. To obtain statistical data for multiple modules over the course of degradation in-situ of the test chamber, dark I-V measurements are obtained and transformed using superposition, which is found well suited for rapid and quantitative evaluation of potential-induced degradation. It is determined that shunt resistance measurements alone do not represent the extent of power degradation. This is explained with a two-diode model analysis that shows an increasing second diode recombination current and ideality factor as the degradation in module power progresses. Failure modes of the modules stressed outdoors are examined and compared to those stressed in accelerated tests.
Hacke, P.; Smith, R.; Terwiliger, K.; Glick, S.; Jordan, D.; Johnston, S.; Kempe, M.; Kurtz, S.
Analysis and Design of Smart PV Module
This thesis explores the design of a smart photovoltaic (PV) module- a PV module in which PV cells in close proximity are electrically grouped to form a pixel and are connected to dc-dc converter blocks which reside embedded in the back pane of the module. An auto-connected flyback converter topology processing less than full power is used to provide high gain and perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT). These dc-dc converters interface with cascaded H-bridge inverter modules operating on feed forward control for dc-link voltage ripple rejection. By means of feed forward control, a significant reduction in dc link capacitance is achieved by enduring higher dc link ripple voltages. The dc link electrolytic capacitors are replaced with film capacitors thus offering an improvement in the reliability of the smart PV module. The proposed configuration is capable of producing 120V/ 240V AC voltage. The PV module now becomes a smart AC module by virtue of embedded intelligence to selectively actuate the individual dc-dc converters and control the output AC voltages directly, thus becoming a true plug and power energy system. Such a concept is ideal for curved surfaces such as building integrated PV (BIPV) system applications where gradients of insolation and temperature cause not only variations from PV module-to-PV module but from group-to-group of cells within the module itself. A detailed analysis along with simulation and experimental results confirm the feasibility of the proposed system.
Mazumdar, Poornima
Building Integrated PV System at Lahaina Civic Center Gymnasium Complex, Maui, Hawaii (MECO)
A 1.2kW building integrated photovoltaic system was designed by Maui Electric Company Ltd (MECO) and installed at the Lahaina Civic Center Gymnasium on the island of Maui, Hawaii. The BIPV structure serves as an extension to an existing covered walkway. The system is powered by the photovoltaic modules and the energy is stored in four gel cell type batteries. An entryway structure was constructed to house the system equipment, an LED display sign and lighted message board. A parking lot light is also pow...
Browse wiki | Open Energy Information
calculation tool used ... PVWatts is an online calculation tool used for estimating the energy production and cost savings grid connected PV systems at locations around the...
Building Energy Software Tools Directory: Tools by Country -...
simulation, grid-connected PV systems, electrical components, shading, economic analysis. Frame Simulator 2D, heat transfer, thermal analysis, thermal transmittance, thermal...
Microsoft PowerPoint - Tracking the Sun VI Briefing.pptx
Project overview Objective: Using project-level data, describe and analyze trends in the installed price of grid-connected PV systems in the United States: * Total...
Tracking the Sun IV An Historical Summary of the Installed Cost...
department, energy markets, photovoltaics Abstract As the deployment of grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has increased, so too has the desire to track the...
Solar | Department of Energy
residential and commercial customers are eligible for rebate on qualifying grid-connected PV systems. In keeping with SB1, (the California Solar Initiative mandating that utilities...
eligible for rebate on qualifying grid-connected PV systems. In keeping with SB1, (the California Solar Initiative mandating that utilities put into place programs to assure...
High Resolution PV Power Modeling for Distribution Circuit Analysis
NREL has contracted with Clean Power Research to provide 1-minute simulation datasets of PV systems located at three high penetration distribution feeders in the service territory of Southern California Edison (SCE): Porterville, Palmdale, and Fontana, California. The resulting PV simulations will be used to separately model the electrical circuits to determine the impacts of PV on circuit operations.
Norris, B. L.; Dise, J. H.
Interconnecting PV on New York City's Secondary Network
66 IAEI NEWS January.February 2007 www.iaei.org inspectors demand more answers Perspectives on PV A series of articles on photovoltaic (PV) power systems and the National Electrical Code Inspectors DemandPVsystemorinspectingsuchasystem, therearemanynewfeaturesthatareworthquestioning.Herearesome of the questions that inspectors have raised via e-mail, telephone calls, andduringmyPV
Designing PV Incentive Programs to Promote Performance: A Review of Current Practice in the U.S.
Connected PV Systems Rated Output Product Reliability SafetyPV system components and installations meet minimum industry standards related to safety, reliability, and
Pioneer Valley Photovoltaics Cooperative aka PV Squared | Open Energy
Photovoltaics Cooperative aka PV Squared Photovoltaics Cooperative aka PV Squared Jump to: navigation, search Name Pioneer Valley Photovoltaics Cooperative (aka PV Squared) Place New Britain, Connecticut Zip 6051 Sector Solar Product Solar PV system installer. References Pioneer Valley Photovoltaics Cooperative (aka PV Squared)[1] LinkedIn Connections CrunchBase Profile No CrunchBase profile. Create one now! This article is a stub. You can help OpenEI by expanding it. Pioneer Valley Photovoltaics Cooperative (aka PV Squared) is a company located in New Britain, Connecticut . References ↑ "Pioneer Valley Photovoltaics Cooperative (aka PV Squared)" Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Pioneer_Valley_Photovoltaics_Cooperative_aka_PV_Squared&oldid=349764"
Energy and economic assessment of desiccant cooling systems coupled with single glazed air and hybrid PV/thermal solar collectors for applications in hot and humid climate
This paper presents a detailed analysis of the energy and economic performance of desiccant cooling systems (DEC) equipped with both single glazed standard air and hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PV/t) collectors for applications in hot and humid climates. The use of 'solar cogeneration' by means of PV/t hybrid collectors enables the simultaneous production of electricity and heat, which can be directly used by desiccant air handling units, thereby making it possible to achieve very energy savings. The present work shows the results of detailed simulations conducted for a set of desiccant cooling systems operating without any heat storage. System performance was investigated through hourly simulations for different systems and load combinations. Three configurations of DEC systems were considered: standard DEC, DEC with an integrated heat pump and DEC with an enthalpy wheel. Two kinds of building occupations were considered: office and lecture room. Moreover, three configurations of solar-assisted air handling units (AHU) equipped with desiccant wheels were considered and compared with standard AHUs, focusing on achievable primary energy savings. The relationship between the solar collector's area and the specific primary energy consumption for different system configurations and building occupation patterns is described. For both occupation patterns, sensitivity analysis on system performance was performed for different solar collector areas. Also, this work presents an economic assessment of the systems. The cost of conserved energy and the payback time were calculated, with and without public incentives for solar cooling systems. It is worth noting that the use of photovoltaics, and thus the exploitation of related available incentives in many European countries, could positively influence the spread of solar air cooling technologies (SAC). An outcome of this work is that SAC systems equipped with PV/t collectors are shown to have better performance in terms of primary energy saving than conventional systems fed by vapour compression chillers and coupled with PV cells. All SAC systems present good figures for primary energy consumption. The best performances are seen in systems with integrated heat pumps and small solar collector areas. The economics of these SAC systems at current equipment costs and energy prices are acceptable. They become more interesting in the case of public incentives of up to 30% of the investment cost (Simple Payback Time from 5 to 10 years) and doubled energy prices. (author)
Beccali, Marco; Finocchiaro, Pietro; Nocke, Bettina [Universita degli Studi di Palermo, Palermo (Italy)
Optimal Inverter VAR Control in Distribution Systems with High PV Penetration
The intent of the study detailed in this paper is to demonstrate the benefits of inverter var control on a fast timescale to mitigate rapid and large voltage fluctuations due to the high penetration of photovoltaic generation and the resulting reverse power flow. Our approach is to formulate the volt/var control as a radial optimal power flow (OPF) problem to minimize line losses and energy consumption, subject to constraints on voltage magnitudes. An efficient solution to the radial OPF problem is presented and used to study the structure of optimal inverter var injection and the net benefits, taking into account the additional cost of inverter losses when operating at non-unity power factor. This paper will illustrate how, depending on the circuit topology and its loading condition, the inverter's optimal reactive power injection is not necessarily monotone with respect to their real power output. The results are demonstrated on a distribution feeder on the Southern California Edison system that has a very ...
Farivar, Masoud; Clarke, Christopher; Low, Steven
Modeling and Simulation of Solar PV Arrays under Changing Illumination Conditions
from the solar cell. PV has widespread use in niche markets such as consumer electronics, remote area onto a small number of highly efficient solar cells. PV systems mounted on house roofs can be used. Hybrid PV/thermal micro concentrator systems on building roofs are being developed to provide solar PV
Lehman, Brad
Sunshine PV | Open Energy Information
Sunshine PV Jump to: navigation, search Name Sunshine PV Place Taiwan Sector Solar Product Taiwan-based subsidiary of Solartech Energy and thin-film PV module supplier. References...
Austin Energy- Commercial PV Incentive Program
Austin Energy, a municipal utility, offers a production incentive to its commercial and multi-family residential customers for electricity generated by qualifying photovoltaic (PV) systems of up to...
Austin Energy- Residential Solar PV Rebate Program
Austin Energy's Solar Rebate Program offers a $1.50 per watt incentive to eligible residential who install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their homes. Rebates are limited to $15,000 per home...
Updating Technical Screens for PV Interconnection: Preprint
Solar photovoltaics (PV) is the dominant type of distributed generation (DG) technology interconnected to electric distribution systems in the United States, and deployment of PV systems continues to increase rapidly. Considering the rapid growth and widespread deployment of PV systems in United States electric distribution grids, it is important that interconnection procedures be as streamlined as possible to avoid unnecessary interconnection studies, costs, and delays. Because many PV interconnection applications involve high penetration scenarios, the process needs to allow for a sufficiently rigorous technical evaluation to identify and address possible system impacts. Existing interconnection procedures are designed to balance the need for efficiency and technical rigor for all DG. However, there is an implicit expectation that those procedures will be updated over time in order to remain relevant with respect to evolving standards, technology, and practical experience. Modifications to interconnection screens and procedures must focus on maintaining or improving safety and reliability, as well as accurately allocating costs and improving expediency of the interconnection process. This paper evaluates the origins and usefulness of the capacity penetration screen, offers potential short-term solutions which could effectively allow fast-track interconnection to many PV system applications, and considers longer-term solutions for increasing PV deployment levels in a safe and reliable manner while reducing or eliminating the emphasis on the penetration screen.
Coddington, M.; Ellis, A.; Lynn, K.; Razon, A.; Key, T.; Kroposki, B.; Mather, B.; Hill, R.; Nicole, K.; Smith, J.
Solar PV Market Update: Volume 1 - Spring
The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Solar PV Market Update provides a snapshot of photovoltaic (PV) market information, along with brief EPRI analyses, to inform EPRI members about economic-, policy-, and technology-related developments in the segment. Delivered on a quarterly basis, the document synthesizes data reporting gleaned from a variety of primary and secondary sources, highlighting specific industry issuesincluding market outlooks, equipment cost and pricing trends, system design and e...
Maricopa Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating...
is in addition to the existing standards for residential and commercial PV systems. Local solar installers have reported that being able to refer permitting officials to these MAG...
Novel Control and Harmonics Impact of PV Solar Farms.
??This thesis presents a novel application of Photovoltaic (PV) solar system inverter, both during night and day, as a dynamic reactive power compensator STATCOM. This� (more)
Das, Byomakesh
CEFIA - Residential Solar PV Rebate Program (Connecticut) | Open...
project. Factors considered in calculating the rebate include: PV panel selection, inverter efficiency, system orientation and tilt, and shading on the site. Participation by...
CCEF - Affordable Housing Initiative Solar PV Rebate Program...
project. Factors considered in calculating the rebate include: PV panel selection, inverter efficiency, system orientation and tilt, and shading on the site. For multi-family...
Definition: PV module | Open Energy Information
Definition Definition Edit with form History Facebook icon Twitter icon » Definition: PV module Jump to: navigation, search Dictionary.png PV module A unit comprised of several PV cells, and the principal unit of a PV array; it is intended to generate direct current power under un-concentrated sunlight.[1][2] View on Wikipedia Wikipedia Definition A solar panel is a set of solar photovoltaic modules electrically connected and mounted on a supporting structure. A photovoltaic module is a packaged, connected assembly of photovoltaic cells. The solar module can be used as a component of a larger photovoltaic system to generate and supply electricity in commercial and residential applications. Each module is rated by its DC output power under standard test conditions (STC), and
System dynamic model and charging control of lead-acid battery for stand-alone solar PV system
The lead-acid battery which is widely used in stand-alone solar system is easily damaged by a poor charging control which causes overcharging. The battery charging control is thus usually designed to stop charging after the overcharge point. This will reduce the storage energy capacity and reduce the service time in electricity supply. The design of charging control system however requires a good understanding of the system dynamic behaviour of the battery first. In the present study, a first-order system dynamics model of lead-acid battery at different operating points near the overcharge voltage was derived experimentally, from which a charging control system based on PI algorithm was developed using PWM charging technique. The feedback control system for battery charging after the overcharge point (14 V) was designed to compromise between the set-point response and the disturbance rejection. The experimental results show that the control system can suppress the battery voltage overshoot within 0.1 V when the solar irradiation is suddenly changed from 337 to 843 W/m{sup 2}. A long-term outdoor test for a solar LED lighting system shows that the battery voltage never exceeded 14.1 V for the set point 14 V and the control system can prevent the battery from overcharging. The test result also indicates that the control system is able to increase the charged energy by 78%, as compared to the case that the charging stops after the overcharge point (14 V). (author)
Huang, B.J.; Hsu, P.C.; Wu, M.S.; Ho, P.Y. [New Energy Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei (China)
PV performance modeling workshop summary report.
During the development of a solar photovoltaic (PV) energy project, predicting expected energy production from a system is a key part of understanding system value. System energy production is a function of the system design and location, the mounting configuration, the power conversion system, and the module technology, as well as the solar resource. Even if all other variables are held constant, annual energy yield (kWh/kWp) will vary among module technologies because of differences in response to low-light levels and temperature. A number of PV system performance models have been developed and are in use, but little has been published on validation of these models or the accuracy and uncertainty of their output. With support from the U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Energy Technologies Program, Sandia National Laboratories organized a PV Performance Modeling Workshop in Albuquerque, New Mexico, September 22-23, 2010. The workshop was intended to address the current state of PV system models, develop a path forward for establishing best practices on PV system performance modeling, and set the stage for standardization of testing and validation procedures for models and input parameters. This report summarizes discussions and presentations from the workshop, as well as examines opportunities for collaborative efforts to develop objective comparisons between models and across sites and applications.
Stein, Joshua S.; Tasca, Coryne Adelle (SRA International, Inc., Fairfax, VA); Cameron, Christopher P.
PV array simulator development and validation.
The ability to harvest all available energy from a photovoltaic (PV) array is essential if new system developments are to meet levelized cost of energy targets and achieve grid parity with conventional centralized utility power. Therefore, exercising maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms, dynamic irradiance condition operation and startup and shutdown routines and evaluating inverter performance with various PV module fill-factor characteristics must be performed with a repeatable, reliable PV source. Sandia National Laboratories is collaborating with Ametek Programmable Power to develop and demonstrate a multi-port TerraSAS PV array simulator. The simulator will replicate challenging PV module profiles, enabling the evaluation of inverter performance through analyses of the parameters listed above. Energy harvest algorithms have traditionally implemented methods that successfully utilize available energy. However, the quantification of energy capture has always been difficult to conduct, specifically when characterizing the inverter performance under non-reproducible dynamic irradiance conditions. Theoretical models of the MPPT algorithms can simulate capture effectiveness, but full validation requires a DC source with representative field effects. The DC source being developed by Ametek and validated by Sandia is a fully integrated system that can simulate an IV curve from the Solar Advisor Model (SAM) module data base. The PV simulator allows the user to change the fill factor by programming the maximum power point voltage and current parameters and the open circuit voltage and short circuit current. The integrated PV simulator can incorporate captured irradiance and module temperature data files for playback, and scripted profiles can be generated to validate new emerging hardware embedded with existing and evolving MPPT algorithms. Since the simulator has multiple independent outputs, it also has the flexibility to evaluate an inverter with multiple MPPT DC inputs. The flexibility of the PV simulator enables the validation of the inverter's capability to handle vastly different array configurations.
Kuszmaul, Scott S.; Gonzalez, Sigifredo; Lucca, Roberto (Ametek Programmable Power, San Diego, CA); Deuel, Don (Ametek Programmable Power, San Diego, CA)
A Generalized Class of Stationary Frame-Current Controllers for Grid-Connected AC�DC Converters
Within power systems, high-power pulsewidth-modulated ac-dc converters are used in flexible ac transmission systems controllers and for interfacing renewable energy sources to the grid. These converters traditionally ...
Hwang, J. George
PV | OpenEI
PV PV Dataset Summary Description This dataset is from the report Operational water consumption and withdrawal factors for electricity generating technologies: a review of existing literature (J. Macknick, R. Newmark, G. Heath and K.C. Hallett) and provides estimates of operational water withdrawal and water consumption factors for electricity generating technologies in the United States. Estimates of water factors were collected from published primary literature and were not modified except for unit conversions. Source National Renewable Energy Laboratory Date Released August 28th, 2012 (2 years ago) Date Updated Unknown Keywords coal consumption csp factors geothermal PV renewable energy technologies Water wind withdrawal Data application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.spreadsheetml.sheet icon Operational water consumption and withdrawal factors for electricity generating technologies (xlsx, 77.7 KiB)
Gulf Power - Solar PV Program | Department of Energy
Gulf Power - Solar PV Program Gulf Power - Solar PV Program Gulf Power - Solar PV Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate $10,000/installation Program Info State Florida Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount $2/watt Provider Energy Efficiency '''''All funding has currently been reserved and new applications are no longer being accepted. See Gulf Power's [http://www.gulfpower.com/renewable/solarElectricity.asp Solar PV] web site for more information.''''' Gulf Power offers a Solar PV rebate to residential and commercial customers. Gulf Power will provide a $2/watt rebate with a $10,000 per system maximum. In addition, Gulf Power has a Solar for Schools program, providing capital funding for PV systems. Gulf Power has worked with the Florida Solar Energy
Interline photovoltaic (I-PV) power plants for voltage unbalance compensation
This paper proposes a stationary-frame control method for voltage unbalance compensation using Interline Photovoltaic (I-PV) power system. I-PV power systems are controlled to compensate voltage unbalance autonomously. The ...
Moawwad, Ahmed
Open PV Project: Unlocking PV Installation Data (Brochure)
This brochure summarizes the Open PV Project, a collaborative effort of government, industry, and the public to compile a comprehensive database of PV installations in the United States. The brochure outlines the purpose and history of the project as well as the main capabilities and benefits of the online Open PV tool. The brochure also introduces how features of the tool are used, and it describes the sources and characteristics of Open PV's data and data collection processes.
The Impact of Retail Rate Structures on the Economics ofCommercial Photovoltaic Systems in California
To achieve a sizable and self-sustaining market for grid-connected, customer-sited photovoltaic (PV) systems, solar will likely need to be competitive with retail electricity rates. In this report, we examine the impact of retail rate design on the economic value of commercial PV systems in California. Using 15-minute interval building load and PV production data from 24 actual commercial PV installations, we compare the value of the bill savings across 20 commercial customer retail rates currently offered in the state. We find that the specifics of the rate structure, combined with the characteristics of the customer's underlying load and the size of the PV system, can have a substantial impact on the customer-economics of commercial PV systems. Key conclusions for policymakers that emerge from our analysis are as follows: {sm_bullet} Rate design is fundamental to the economics of commercial PV. The rate-reduction value of PV for our sample of commercial customers, considering all available retail tariffs, ranges from $0.05/kWh to $0.24/kWh, reflecting differences in rate structures, the revenue requirements of the various utilities, the size of the PV system relative to building load, and customer load shapes. For the average customer in our sample, differences in rate structure, alone, alter the value of PV by 25% to 75%, depending on the size of the PV system relative to building load. {sm_bullet} TOU-based energy-focused rates can provide substantial value to many PV customers. Retail rates that wrap all or most utility cost recovery needs into time-of-use (TOU)-based volumetric energy rates, and which exclude or limit demand-based charges, provide the most value to PV systems across a wide variety of circumstances. Expanding the availability of such rates will increase the value of many commercial PV systems. {sm_bullet} Offering commercial customers a variety of rate options would be of value to PV. Despite the advantages of energy-focused rates for PV, requiring the use of these tariffs would disadvantage some commercial PV installations. In particular, for PV systems that serve less than 25-50% of annual customer load, the characteristics of the customer's underlying load profile often determine the most favorable rate structure, and energy-focused rate structures may not be ideal for many commercial-customer load shapes. Regulators that wish to establish rates that are beneficial to a range of PV applications should therefore consider allowing customers to choose from among a number of different rate structures. {sm_bullet} Eliminating net metering can significantly degrade the economics of PV systems that serve a large percentage of building load. Under the assumptions stipulated in this report, we find that an elimination of net metering could, in some circumstances, result in more than a 25% loss in the rate-reduction value of commercial PV. As long as annual solar output is less than roughly 25% of customer load and excess PV production can be sold to the local utility at a rate above $0.05/kWh, however, elimination of net metering is found to rarely result in a financial loss of greater than 5% of the rate-reduction value of PV. More detailed conclusions on the rate-reduction value of commercial PV include: {sm_bullet} Commercial PV systems can sometimes greatly reduce demand charges. Though energy-focused retail rates often offer the greatest rate reduction value, commercial PV installations can generate significant reductions in demand charges, in some cases constituting 10-50% of the total rate savings derived from PV installations. These savings, however, depend highly on the size of the PV system relative to building load, on the customer's load shape, and on the design of the demand charge itself. {sm_bullet} The value of demand charge reductions declines with PV system size. At high levels of PV penetration, the value of PV-induced demand charge savings on a $/kWh basis can drop substantially. As a result, the rate-reduction value of PV can decline by up to one-half when a PV system m
To achieve a sizable and self-sustaining market for grid-connected, customer-sited photovoltaic (PV) systems, solar will likely need to be competitive with retail electricity rates. In this report, we examine the impact of retail rate design on the economic value of commercial PV systems in California. Using 15-minute interval building load and PV production data from 24 actual commercial PV installations, we compare the value of the bill savings across 20 commercial customer retail rates currently offered in the state. We find that the specifics of the rate structure, combined with the characteristics of the customer's underlying load and the size of the PV system, can have a substantial impact on the customer-economics of commercial PV systems. Key conclusions for policymakers that emerge from our analysis are as follows: {sm_bullet} Rate design is fundamental to the economics of commercial PV. The rate-reduction value of PV for our sample of commercial customers, considering all available retail tariffs, ranges from $0.05/kWh to $0.24/kWh, reflecting differences in rate structures, the revenue requirements of the various utilities, the size of the PV system relative to building load, and customer load shapes. For the average customer in our sample, differences in rate structure, alone, alter the value of PV by 25% to 75%, depending on the size of the PV system relative to building load. {sm_bullet} TOU-based energy-focused rates can provide substantial value to many PV customers. Retail rates that wrap all or most utility cost recovery needs into time-of-use (TOU)-based volumetric energy rates, and which exclude or limit demand-based charges, provide the most value to PV systems across a wide variety of circumstances. Expanding the availability of such rates will increase the value of many commercial PV systems. {sm_bullet} Offering commercial customers a variety of rate options would be of value to PV. Despite the advantages of energy-focused rates for PV, requiring the use of these tariffs would disadvantage some commercial PV installations. In particular, for PV systems that serve less than 25-50% of annual customer load, the characteristics of the customer's underlying load profile often determine the most favorable rate structure, and energy-focused rate structures may not be ideal for many commercial-customer load shapes. Regulators that wish to establish rates that are beneficial to a range of PV applications should therefore consider allowing customers to choose from among a number of different rate structures. {sm_bullet} Eliminating net metering can significantly degrade the economics of PV systems that serve a large percentage of building load. Under the assumptions stipulated in this report, we find that an elimination of net metering could, in some circumstances, result in more than a 25% loss in the rate-reduction value of commercial PV. As long as annual solar output is less than roughly 25% of customer load and excess PV production can be sold to the local utility at a rate above $0.05/kWh, however, elimination of net metering is found to rarely result in a financial loss of greater than 5% of the rate-reduction value of PV. More detailed conclusions on the rate-reduction value of commercial PV include: {sm_bullet} Commercial PV systems can sometimes greatly reduce demand charges. Though energy-focused retail rates often offer the greatest rate reduction value, commercial PV installations can generate significant reductions in demand charges, in some cases constituting 10-50% of the total rate savings derived from PV installations. These savings, however, depend highly on the size of the PV system relative to building load, on the customer's load shape, and on the design of the demand charge itself. {sm_bullet} The value of demand charge reductions declines with PV system size. At high levels of PV penetration, the value of PV-induced demand charge savings on a $/kWh basis can drop substantially. As a result, the rate-reduction value of PV can decline by up to one-half when a PV system meets 75% rather
DOE High Performance Concentrator PV Project
Much in demand are next-generation photovoltaic (PV) technologies that can be used economically to make a large-scale impact on world electricity production. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) initiated the High-Performance Photovoltaic (HiPerf PV) Project to substantially increase the viability of PV for cost-competitive applications so that PV can contribute significantly to both our energy supply and environment. To accomplish such results, the National Center for Photovoltaics (NCPV) directs in-house and subcontracted research in high-performance polycrystalline thin-film and multijunction concentrator devices with the goal of enabling progress of high-efficiency technologies toward commercial-prototype products. We will describe the details of the subcontractor and in-house progress in exploring and accelerating pathways of III-V multijunction concentrator solar cells and systems toward their long-term goals. By 2020, we anticipate that this project will have demonstrated 33% system efficiency and a system price of $1.00/Wp for concentrator PV systems using III-V multijunction solar cells with efficiencies over 41%.
McConnell, R.; Symko-Davies, M.
An overview of NREL's PV solar radiation research task activities and results
This paper presents an overview of the recent activities and results of the Photovoltaics (PV) Solar Radiation Research task of NREL's PV Advanced Research and Development (PVAR D) Project. Topics covered include the Atmospheric Optical Calibration System (AOCS) and instrumentation systems for monitoring and characterizing the solar irradiance available to PV systems. Both types of instrumentation systems and activities are required for a thorough understanding of PV device performance and design.
Hulstrom, R.L.; Cannon, T.W.; Stoffel, T.; Riordan, C.J. (National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), 1617 Cole Blvd., Golden, Colorado 80401 (United States))
Study of Various Types of Faults with Neuro Fuzzy Controlled SSSC and STATCOM in Stabilization of Grid Connected Wind Generator
When wind farm is integrated to the power system, it has stability problem. Fixed speed induction generators require reactive power to maintain air gap flux. Reactive power equipments like Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM) and Static Synchronous ... Keywords: wind farm, grid, Induction generator (IG), STATCOM, SSSC, reactive power compensation, Neuro fuzzy controller (NFC), various types of faults
Rohi Kachroo; H. S. Dalvi
Abstract--This paper focuses on reviewing grid connection of large offshore wind farms (OWFs) employing current state-of-
1 High Voltage DC Transmission 2 1.0 Introduction Interconnecting HVDC within an AC system requires on use of switching devices collectively referred to in the HVDC community as valves. Valves may be non. Fig. 1 There have been three types of devices for implementing HVDC converter circuits: mercury
Bak, Claus Leth
Assessing the impacts of feed in tariffs and metering configuration (gross or net), on the payback period for an average solar PV system in metropolitan Melbourne.
??With an increasing customer focus on renewable energy and the perceived benefits from widespread solar photovoltaic (PV) generation there has been a rapid increase in� (more)
Bailey, Darren
Concentrator Photovoltaic Systems
Concentrator photovoltaic (PV) systems use less solar cell material than other PV systems. PV cells are the most expensive components of a PV system, on a per-area basis. A concentrator makes use...
The Solarize Guidebook: A community guide to collective purchasing of residential PV systems (Book), SunShot, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
SOLARIZE GUIDEBOOK: SOLARIZE GUIDEBOOK: A community guide to collective purchasing of residential PV systems 1 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This guide is an updated version of the original The Solarize Guidebook, published in February 2011 (see www.nrel.gov/docs/fy11osti/50440.pdf), which was developed for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the City of Portland. The original Solarize campaigns were initiated and replicated by Portland's Neighborhood Coalition network with help from the Energy Trust of Oregon, City of Portland, and Solar Oregon. AUTHORS Linda Irvine, Alexandra Sawyer and Jennifer Grove, Northwest Sustainable Energy for Economic Development (Northwest SEED). Northwest SEED is solely responsible for errors and omissions. CONTRIBUTORS Lee Rahr, Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability
Tracking the Sun: The Installed Cost of Photovoltaics in the U.S. from 1998-2007
As installations of grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have grown, so too has the desire to track the installed cost of these systems over time, by system characteristics, by system location, and by component. This report helps to fill this need by summarizing trends in the installed cost of grid-connected PV systems in the United States from 1998 through 2007. The report is based on an analysis of installed cost data from nearly 37,000 residential and non-residential PV systems, totaling 363 MW of capacity, and representing 76percent of all grid-connected PV capacity installed in the U.S. through 2007.
Wiser, Ryan; Barbose, Galen; Peterman, Carla
provide to PV system purchasers? And what implications might they hold for stateutility PV grant programs? Using a generic (i.e., non-state-specific) cash flow model, this report...
installed over 1.5 MW of rooftop PV [2]. These systems generate value primarily through the energy produced and the intermittent nature of the solar resource create challenges to realizing the capacity value of PV installations
Ambiental PV | Open Energy Information
Ambiental PV Ambiental PV Jump to: navigation, search Name Ambiental PV Place Bahia, Brazil Zip 40140-380 Sector Carbon Product Bahia-based carbon consultancy firm. References Ambiental PV[1] LinkedIn Connections CrunchBase Profile No CrunchBase profile. Create one now! This article is a stub. You can help OpenEI by expanding it. Ambiental PV is a company located in Bahia, Brazil . References ↑ "Ambiental PV" Retrieved from "http://en.openei.org/w/index.php?title=Ambiental_PV&oldid=342095" Categories: Clean Energy Organizations Companies Organizations Stubs What links here Related changes Special pages Printable version Permanent link Browse properties 429 Throttled (bot load) Error 429 Throttled (bot load) Throttled (bot load) Guru Meditation: XID: 186306960
Three-phase power conversion system for utility-interconnected PV applications. Phase 1 technical progress report, 1 October 1995--17 April 1997
This report describes work performed by Omnion Power Corporation under Phase 1 of a two-phase subcontract. During this phase, Omnion researchers: designed an advanced product specification to guide prototype design and development; analyzed field failure data with Omnion`s hard-switched insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistor technology hardware to better understand where design improvements were needed; presented and reviewed product specifications with key customers/users; drafted a working product specification to serve as a baseline in developing the new power conversion system; developed the core-resonant converter technology in conjunction with Soft Switching Technologies Corp.; designed a 100-kW prototype power conversion system; designed a prototype system package; initiated interaction with vendors to optimize component selection and specifications; initiated the preparation of design documentation; built the prototype core-resonant converter and initiated preliminary testing; and initiated the assembly of a 1-kW prototype power conversion system. This work has demonstrated the potential of the soft-switching resonant DC link (RDCL) inverter and its application to a three-phase utility-interconnected PV power conversion system. The RDCL inverter has demonstrated its advantage over hard-switching pulse-width modulated inverters in terms of efficiency and audible noise. With proper package design and manufacturing process design and implementation, the RDCL power conversion system has the potential to be low-cost and reliable with superior performance.
Porter, D.G.; Meyer, H.; Leang, W. [Omnion Power Engineering Corp., East Troy, WI (United States)
PMMA Acrylic in a Stress-Response Framework for PV Materials
PMMA Acrylic in a Stress-Response Framework for PV Materials Laura S. Bruckman Materials Science, VuGraph 2 Motivation: Lifetime & Degradation Science for Photovoltaics Need scientific basis for PV, components, systems for PV · System lifetime performance Determine degradation modes, mechanisms and rates
Rollins, Andrew M.
City of Palo Alto Utilities - PV Partners | Department of Energy
PV Partners PV Partners City of Palo Alto Utilities - PV Partners < Back Eligibility Commercial Local Government Nonprofit Residential Schools Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Incentives available for first 1 MW Program Info Start Date July 2007 State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Systems Systems 30 kW and larger: Performance-based incentive (PBI), based on actual monthly energy produced (kWh) for 60 month term. For current rebate levels, visit the program website below. Provider City of Palo Alto Utilities The City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) PV Partners Program offers incentives to customers that install qualifying PV systems. The program, which has a budget of approximately $13 million over 10 years, is divided
PV Powered Inc | Open Energy Information
PV Powered Inc PV Powered Inc Place Bend, Oregon Zip 97702 Product Oregon-based manufacturer of inverters for PV systems. Coordinates 44.05766°, -121.315549° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":44.05766,"lon":-121.315549,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Gansu PV Co Ltd | Open Energy Information
Gansu PV Co Ltd Gansu PV Co Ltd Place Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China Zip 730000 Sector Solar Product Gansu PV Co Ltd is active in manufacturing, installing and servicing SHS and small portable solar lighting systems. Coordinates 36.059299°, 103.756279° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":36.059299,"lon":103.756279,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Dynamic Model Validation of PV Inverters Under Short-Circuit Conditions: Preprint
Photovoltaic (PV) modules have dramatically decreased in price in the past few years, spurring the expansion of photovoltaic deployment. Residential and commercial rooftop installations are connected to the distribution network; large-scale installation PV power plants (PVPs) have benefited from tax incentives and the low cost of PV modules. As the level penetration of PV generation increases, the impact on power system reliability will also be greater. Utility power system planners must consider the role of PV generation in power systems more realistically by representing PV generation in dynamic stability analyses. Dynamic models of PV inverters have been developed in the positive sequence representation. NREL has developed a PV inverter dynamic model in PSCAD/EMTDC. This paper validates the dynamic model with an actual hardware bench test conducted by Southern California Edison's Distributed Energy Resources laboratory. All the fault combinations -- symmetrical and unsymmetrical -- were performed in the laboratory. We compare the simulation results with the bench test results.
Muljadi, E.; Singh, M.; Bravo, R.; Gevorgian, V.
Large-Scale PV Integration Study
This research effort evaluates the impact of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) and distributed generation (DG) output on NV Energy�s electric grid system in southern Nevada. It analyzes the ability of NV Energy�s generation to accommodate increasing amounts of utility-scale PV and DG, and the resulting cost of integrating variable renewable resources. The study was jointly funded by the United States Department of Energy and NV Energy, and conducted by a project team comprised of industry experts and research scientists from Navigant Consulting Inc., Sandia National Laboratories, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and NV Energy.
Lu, Shuai; Etingov, Pavel V.; Diao, Ruisheng; Ma, Jian; Samaan, Nader A.; Makarov, Yuri V.; Guo, Xinxin; Hafen, Ryan P.; Jin, Chunlian; Kirkham, Harold; Shlatz, Eugene; Frantzis, Lisa; McClive, Timothy; Karlson, Gregory; Acharya, Dhruv; Ellis, Abraham; Stein, Joshua; Hansen, Clifford; Chadliev, Vladimir; Smart, Michael; Salgo, Richard; Sorensen, Rahn; Allen, Barbara; Idelchik, Boris
AEP SWEPCO - SMART Source Solar PV Program | Department of Energy
AEP SWEPCO - SMART Source Solar PV Program AEP SWEPCO - SMART Source Solar PV Program AEP SWEPCO - SMART Source Solar PV Program < Back Eligibility Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: $15,000 Non-residential: $30,000 Program Info Start Date 08/01/2009 State Texas Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Residential: $1.50/watt DC Non-residential: $1.20/watt DC Provider Smart Source PV Program Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) offers rebates to customers that install photovoltaic (PV) systems on homes. Rebates may be assigned to the customer, a service provider, or a third party. Rebates are offered at a rate of $1.50 per watt (DC) for residential installations and $1.20 per watt (DC) for non-residential installations. The maximum per project and per customer rebate for residential systems is
Going Solar in Record Time with Plug-and-Play PV | Department of Energy
Going Solar in Record Time with Plug-and-Play PV Going Solar in Record Time with Plug-and-Play PV Going Solar in Record Time with Plug-and-Play PV April 24, 2012 - 6:10pm Addthis A plug-and-play PV system is envisioned as a consumer friendly solar technology that uses an automatic detection system to initiate communication between the solar energy system and the utility when plugged into a PV-ready circuit. | Photo by iStock. A plug-and-play PV system is envisioned as a consumer friendly solar technology that uses an automatic detection system to initiate communication between the solar energy system and the utility when plugged into a PV-ready circuit. | Photo by iStock. Kevin Lynn Systems Integration Lead, SunShot Initiative What does this project do? The Energy Department is investing up to $5 million this year to
Most new residential solar PV projects in California program ...
In 2012 and 2013, more than two ... leasing company, as the PV system's ... having someone else build and maintain the system by having to share some of the available ...
Colton Public Utilities - PV Rebate Program (California) | Open...
of more than 10% of the system's rated output. 5 year or better warranty on the inverter. Must comply with California Energy Commission Standards for PV systems and all...
Report to California Energy Commission on route to scale-up of polymer based PV: Funding suggestions for research and technology
production potential for solar vent pre- heating, PV, and wind technologies. #12;6 These facilities should for a solar PV system in this report, has many near-ideal areas in which to implement a PV system solar resource, and excellent incentives, a government-owned PV system provides a reasonable payback
Islam, M. Saif
Advanced, High-Reliability, System-Integrated 500kW PV Inverter Development: Final Subcontract Report, 29 September 2005 - 31 May 2008
Xantrex Technology accomplished subcontract goals of reducing parts cost, weight, and size of its 500-kW inverter by 25% compared to state-of-the-art PV inverters, while extending reliability by 25%.
West, R.
AEP Texas Central Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program |
Central Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program Central Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program AEP Texas Central Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Agricultural Commercial Fed. Government Industrial Institutional Local Government Multi-Family Residential Nonprofit Residential Schools State Government Tribal Government Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: $15,000 Non-residential: $31,2500 Program Info Start Date 08/01/2009 State Texas Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Residential: $1.50/W DC Non-residential: $1.25/W DC Provider Smart Source PV Program American Electric Power Texas Central Company (AEP-TCC) offers rebates to customers that install photovoltaic (PV) systems on homes or other buildings. Customers of all rate classes are eligible to participate in the
TekSun PV Manufacturing Inc | Open Energy Information
TekSun PV Manufacturing Inc TekSun PV Manufacturing Inc Jump to: navigation, search Name TekSun PV Manufacturing Inc Place Austin, Texas Zip 78701 Product US-based installer of PV systems; rportedly planning to buy a 120MW amorphous silicon PV manufacturing line from Applied Materials. Coordinates 30.267605°, -97.742984° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":30.267605,"lon":-97.742984,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Balance-of-System Equipment Required for Renewable Energy Systems |
Balance-of-System Equipment Required for Renewable Energy Systems Balance-of-System Equipment Required for Renewable Energy Systems Balance-of-System Equipment Required for Renewable Energy Systems July 2, 2012 - 8:21pm Addthis Both grid-connected and off-grid home renewable energy systems require additional âbalance-of-systemâ equipment. Both grid-connected and off-grid home renewable energy systems require additional "balance-of-system" equipment. How does it work? With a stand-alone system, depending on your needs, balance-of-system equipment could account for half of your total system costs. For both stand-alone and grid-connect systems, you will need power conditioning equipment, safety equipment, and meters and instrumentation. For stand-alone systems, you will also want batteries and charge controllers.
Kauai Island Utility Co-op (KIUC) PV integration study.
This report investigates the effects that increased distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation would have on the Kauai Island Utility Co-op (KIUC) system operating requirements. The study focused on determining reserve requirements needed to mitigate the impact of PV variability on system frequency, and the impact on operating costs. Scenarios of 5-MW, 10-MW, and 15-MW nameplate capacity of PV generation plants distributed across the Kauai Island were considered in this study. The analysis required synthesis of the PV solar resource data and modeling of the KIUC system inertia. Based on the results, some findings and conclusions could be drawn, including that the selection of units identified as marginal resources that are used for load following will change; PV penetration will displace energy generated by existing conventional units, thus reducing overall fuel consumption; PV penetration at any deployment level is not likely to reduce system peak load; and increasing PV penetration has little effect on load-following reserves. The study was performed by EnerNex under contract from Sandia National Laboratories with cooperation from KIUC.
Ellis, Abraham; Mousseau, Tom (Knoxville, TN)
Optimal Solar PV Arrays Integration for Distributed Generation
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems hold great potential for distributed energy generation by installing PV panels on rooftops of residential and commercial buildings. Yet challenges arise along with the variability and non-dispatchability of the PV systems that affect the stability of the grid and the economics of the PV system. This paper investigates the integration of PV arrays for distributed generation applications by identifying a combination of buildings that will maximize solar energy output and minimize system variability. Particularly, we propose mean-variance optimization models to choose suitable rooftops for PV integration based on Markowitz mean-variance portfolio selection model. We further introduce quantity and cardinality constraints to result in a mixed integer quadratic programming problem. Case studies based on real data are presented. An efficient frontier is obtained for sample data that allows decision makers to choose a desired solar energy generation level with a comfortable variability tolerance level. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to show the tradeoffs between solar PV energy generation potential and variability.
Omitaomu, Olufemi A [ORNL; Li, Xueping [University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK)
DOE/NREL Inner Mongolia PV/Wind Hybrid Systems Pilot Project: A Post-Installation Assessment
This report assesses the Inner Mongolia Pilot Project, which disseminates wind-solar hybrid systems to a rural and remote population.
Stroup, K. K.
Hercules Municipal Utility - PV Rebate Program | Department of Energy
Hercules Municipal Utility - PV Rebate Program Hercules Municipal Utility - PV Rebate Program Hercules Municipal Utility - PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Systems 10 kW or less: 10,000 Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount '''2012:''' Systems up to 10 kW: 2.25/watt AC Systems larger than 10 kW: 0.17/kWh for 5 years'''''' Provider Hercules Municipal Utility '''''Note: This program has been temporarily suspended. Contact the utility for more information.''''' Hercules Municipal Utility offers a $2.25-per-watt AC rebate (2012 rebate level) to its residential and commercial customers who purchase and install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems smaller than 10 kilowatts (kW). Systems 10
City of Lompoc Utilities - PV Rebate Program | Department of Energy
PV Rebate Program PV Rebate Program City of Lompoc Utilities - PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Nonprofit Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate 50% the system cost, up to $50,000 Program Info Funding Source utility surcharge State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount $2.00 per watt Provider Customer Service City of Lompoc Utilities provides rebates to its electric customers who purchase and install photovoltaic (PV) systems. The rebate is $2.00 per watt-AC. The incentive amount may not exceed 50% the cost of the system, up to a maximum of $50,000. To qualify for the rebate the system must meet all the criteria as defined by the Lompoc City Electric interconnection agreement for self-generating electric systems and the requirements set forth by the California Energy
Integrating High Penetrations of PV into Southern California: Year 2 Project Update; Preprint
Southern California Edison (SCE) is well into a five-year project to install a total of 500 MW of distributed photovoltaic (PV) energy within its utility service territory. Typical installations to date are 1-3 MW peak rooftop PV systems that interconnect to medium-voltage urban distribution circuits or larger (5 MW peak) ground-mounted systems that connect to medium-voltage rural distribution circuits. Some of the PV system interconnections have resulted in distribution circuits that have a significant amount of PV generation compared to customer load, resulting in high-penetration PV integration scenarios. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and SCE have assembled a team of distribution modeling, resource assessment, and PV inverter technology experts in order to investigate a few of the high-penetration PV distribution circuits. Currently, the distribution circuits being studied include an urban circuit with a PV penetration of approximately 46% and a rural circuit with a PV penetration of approximately 60%. In both cases, power flow on the circuit reverses direction, compared to traditional circuit operation, during periods of high PV power production and low circuit loading. Research efforts during year two of the five-year project were focused on modeling the distribution system level impacts of high-penetration PV integrations, the development and installation of distribution circuit data acquisition equipment appropriate for quantifying the impacts of high-penetration PV integrations, and investigating high-penetration PV impact mitigation strategies. This paper outlines these research efforts and discusses the following activities in more detail: the development of a quasi-static time-series test feeder for evaluating high-penetration PV integration modeling tools; the advanced inverter functions being investigated for deployment in the project's field demonstration and a power hardware-in-loop test of a 500-kW PV inverter implementing a limited set of advanced inverter functions.
Mather, B.; Neal, R.
Energy Systems and Population Health
small (20 - 100 Wp) solar PV systems have been commerciallyGasification-based) PV (Residential) Solar Thermal (Power
Techno-Economic Assessment of Solar PV/Thermal System for Power and Cooling Generation in Antalya, Turkey.
?? In this study a roof-top PVT/absorption chiller system is modeled for a hotel building in Antalya, Turkey to cover the cooling demand of the� (more)
Kumbasar, Serdar
Austin Energy - Residential Solar PV Rebate Program | Department...
offers a 1.50 per watt incentive to eligible residential who install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their homes. Rebates are limited to 15,000 per home installation and...
Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant- Residential PV Rebate Program
Customers of Taunton Municipal Lighting Plant (TMLP) may be eligible for $2.00/watt rebate on solar photovoltaic (PV) installations. The minimum system size eligible for this rebate is 1 kilowatt ...
City of Sunset Valley - PV Rebate Program | Department of Energy
Amount 1.00W up to 3,000 W The City of Sunset Valley offers rebates to local homeowners who install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their properties. The local rebate acts as...
Potential Vorticity (PV) Thinking in Operations: The Utility of Nonconservation
The use of the potential vorticity (PV) framework by operational forecasters is advocated through case examples that demonstrate its utility for interpreting and evaluating numerical weather prediction (NWP) model output for weather systems ...
Michael J. Brennan; Gary M. Lackmann; Kelly M. Mahoney
Merced Irrigation District - PV Buydown Program | Department of Energy
Merced Irrigation District - PV Buydown Program Merced Irrigation District - PV Buydown Program Merced Irrigation District - PV Buydown Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Nonprofit Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: 8,400 Commercial: $70,000 Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount 2.80/W AC, adjusted based on expected performance Provider Merced Irrigation District Merced Irrigation District (MID) offers its residential, commercial and non-profit customers a rebate for installing solar electric photovoltaic (PV) systems on their homes and offices. The rebate is $2.80 per watt (adjusted based on the expected performance of the system) with a maximum of $8,400 for residential systems and $70,000 for non-residential systems.
Zhonghuite PV Technology Co | Open Energy Information
Zhonghuite PV Technology Co Jump to: navigation, search Name Zhonghuite PV Technology Co Place Jiangxi Province, China Sector Solar Product Jiangxi-based solar project developer....
Full Steam Ahead for PV in US Homes?
In October 2008, the United States Congress extended both the residential and commercial solar investment tax credits (ITCs) for an unprecedented eight years, lifted the $2,000 cap on the residential credit, removed the prohibition on utility use of the commercial credit, and eliminated restrictions on the use of both credits in conjunction with the Alternative Minimum Tax. These significant changes, which apply to systems placed in service on or after January 1, 2009, will increase the value of the solar credits for residential system owners in particular, and are likely--in conjunction with state, local, and utility rebate programs targeting solar--to spur significant growth in residential, commercial, and utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) installations in the years ahead. This article focuses specifically on the residential credit, describing three areas in which removal of the $2,000 cap on the residential ITC will have significant implications for PV rebate program administrators, PV system owners, and the PV industry.
Bolinger, Mark A; Barbose, Galen; Wiser, Ryan
PV Manufacturing R&D Accomplishments and Status
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) PV Manufacturing Research and Development Project has worked for 11 years in partnership with the U.S. photovoltaic industry to reduce manufacturing costs while significantly scaling up production capacity. Over this period, the PV Manufacturing R&D Project has issued seven solicitations for partnerships that have resulted in over 50 cost-shared R&D subcontracts that addressed the cost and capacity goals of the Project, including 10 that are currently active. The previous and current contracts have typically focused on addressing Project goals in one of two areas: module manufacturing and balance-of-systems (BOS)/systems work. The majority of the DOE investment has been targeted toward module manufacturing. The partnerships have resulted in a significant and measurable increase in PV module/systems production capacity, a decrease in PV manufacturing costs, and a subsequent return on the joint public and private investments facilitated by the Project.
Mooney, D.; Mitchell, R.; Witt, E.; King, R.; Ruby, D.
Riverside Public Utilities - Residential PV Incentive Program | Department
PV Incentive Program PV Incentive Program Riverside Public Utilities - Residential PV Incentive Program < Back Eligibility Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate 13,000 or 50% of project cost, whichever is less Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Program is on hold Provider Riverside Public Utilities '''''Note: Funding for this program has been exhausted for the remainder of the fiscal year. The program is scheduled to reopen on July 1, 2014. ''''' The Residential Photovoltaic (PV) System rebate program provides incentives to Riverside Public Utilities customers who purchase and install qualifying photovoltaic systems on their homes. For Fiscal Year 2013, the rebate amount was $2.00 per watt AC and cannot exceed 50% of the total system cost
Lassen Municipal Utility District - PV Rebate Program | Department of
Lassen Municipal Utility District - PV Rebate Program Lassen Municipal Utility District - PV Rebate Program Lassen Municipal Utility District - PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: $5,000 or 50% of system cost, whichever is less Commercial: $23,000 or 50% of system cost, whichever is less. Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Residential: $3.00/W-AC Commercial: $2.10/W-AC Provider Lassen Municipal Utility District Lassen Municipal Utility District (LMUD) is providing incentives for its customers to purchase solar electric photovoltaic (PV) systems. Rebate levels will decrease annually over the life of the program. Through June 30, 2014, rebates of $3.00 per watt-AC up to $5,000 are available for
SMUD - Non-Residential PV Incentive Program | Department of Energy
Non-Residential PV Incentive Program Non-Residential PV Incentive Program SMUD - Non-Residential PV Incentive Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Industrial Nonprofit Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate $650,000 for up-front incentives at current $0.65/W incentive level. Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Expected Performance Based Incentive (for systems up to 1 MW): 0.65/watt AC; incentive adjusted based on expected performance Performance Based Incentive: 0.10/kWh for 5 years or 0.06/kWh for 10 years Incentives are decreased for systems > 1 MW Provider Sacramento Municipal Utility District SMUD offers cash incentives to commercial, industrial, and non-profit customers who install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Customers have the
Integrating High Penetrations of PV into Southern California
California regulators recently approved a plan proposed by Southern California Edison (SCE) to install 500 MW of distributed photovoltaic (PV) energy in its utility service territory over the next 5 years. The installations will include 250 MW of utility-owned solar and 250 MW of independently owned solar. SCE expects that the majority of these systems will be commercial-scale rooftop PV systems connected at various points in the distribution system. Each of the SCE rooftop PV systems will typically have a rating of 1-3 MW. To understand the impact of high-penetration PV on the distribution grid, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and SCE brought together a team of experts in resource assessment, distribution modeling, and planning to help analyze the impacts of adding high penetration of PV into the distribution system. Through modeling and simulation, laboratory testing, and field demonstrations, the team will address the issues identified in the analysis by fully examining the challenges, developing solutions, and transitioning those solutions to the field for large-scale deployment. This paper gives an update on the project and discusses technical results of integrating a large number of distributed PV systems into the grid.
Kroposki, B.; Mather, B.; Hasper-Tuttle, J.; Neal, R.; Katiraei, F.; Yazdani, A.; Aguero, J. R.; Hoff, T. E.; Norris, B. L.; Parkins, A.; Seguin, R.; Schauder, C.
New codes and standards for utility - interconnection of AC PV modules
Photovoltaic (PV) modules that provide only ac power give new dimensions to the use of, and utility interface of, PV systems because all of the dc issues are virtually eliminated. These AC PV modules offer the important advantage that customers may now purchase a PV system without hiring a design engineer. A qualified electrician will be able to install a complete PV system that performs as expected and meets local electrical codes. Simple installations of additional AC PV modules will be possible once the proper branch circuit wiring and protection have been installed. Codes and standards are currently being written to address the utility-interconnect issues for AC PV modules and other interactive inverters. An industry-supported Task Group has recently written and submitted proposals for changes to bring Article 690 of the 1999 National Electrical Code{reg_sign} (NEC{reg_sign}) up to the state-of-the-art for PV devices such as AC PV modules. This paper summarizes the proposed code changes and standards related to the evolving AC PV module technology in the United States. Topics such as the need for dedicated branch circuits for AC PV modules in residential applications are discussed and analyzed. Requirements for limiting the number of AC modules on a branch circuit and the listing requirements that make safe installations are discussed. Coordination of all standards activities for AC module installations, the building-integrated perspectives, and utility-interface issues is discussed.
Bower, W.
Modeling and Controller Design of a Wind Energy Conversion System Including a Matrix Converter.
??In this thesis, a grid-connected wind-energy converter system including a matrix converter is proposed. The matrix converter, as a power electronic converter, is used to� (more)
Barakati, Seyed Masoud
Analysis of electromechanical interactions in a flywheel system with a doubly fed induction machine
This paper analyzes the electromechanical inter-action in a flywheel system with a doubly fed induction machine, used for wind farm power smoothing or grid frequency response control. The grid-connected electrical machine ...
Ran, Li
Plumas-Sierra REC - PV Rebate Program | Department of Energy
PV Rebate Program PV Rebate Program Plumas-Sierra REC - PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Agricultural Commercial Industrial Nonprofit Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate $6,000 for residential; $12,000 for small commercial, agricultural and non-profit applications; $20,000 for large commercial and industrial applications Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount 2012 rebate level: $2.09/watt (AC) Incentives will be adjusted based on expected performance. Provider Plumas-Sierra REC Plumas-Sierra REC offers an incentive for its customers to install photovoltaic (PV) systems on homes and businesses. Rebates are available for qualifying systems between one kilowatt (kW) and 25 kW; the rebate amount is based on the installed capacity. The rebate level will decreases
Lodi Electric Utility - PV Rebate Program | Department of Energy
Lodi Electric Utility - PV Rebate Program Lodi Electric Utility - PV Rebate Program Lodi Electric Utility - PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Industrial Local Government Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: $7,000 Non-residential: $40,000 Program Info Expiration Date January 1, 2018 State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount 2013 Program Year: $1.94/W AC Incentives will be adjusted based on expected performance Provider Customer Programs Lodi Electric Utility offers rebates to its residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems. The rebate program is funded with approximately $6 million to support systems installed between January 1, 2008 and January 1, 2018. The total
Evaluation of the Performance of the PVUSA Rating Methodology Applied to Dual Junction PV Technology: Preprint (Revised)
The PVUSA (Photovoltaics for Utility Scale Applications) project in the 1990's developed a rating methodology for PV performance evaluation which has become popular, and even incorporated into concentrating PV rating standards This report apply that method to rack-mounted dual-junction PV system, and produces a system rating.
Myers, D. R.
Kenmos PV | Open Energy Information
Kenmos PV Kenmos PV Jump to: navigation, search Name Kenmos PV Place Tainan, Taiwan Sector Solar Product Solar business unit of Kenmos Technology which was set up in Sep 2007, to produce thin film PV cells. Coordinates 22.99721°, 120.180862° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":22.99721,"lon":120.180862,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
A Better Steam Engine: Designing a Distributed Concentrating Solar Combined Heat and Power System
a transformative technology. Solar PV, wind, geothermal, andon the whole. Thus, solar CHP and PV systems can be comparedevaluate whether solar CHP and PV systems perform similarly
Norwood, Zachary Mills
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) for Distributed Solar (PV) Integration
This report summarizes the findings from a survey on two-way communication with distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation. The survey focused specifically on exploring how advanced metering infrastructure might be used as the communication means for the integration of residential PV systems. This investigation is one of several data-gathering projects in the Electric Power Research Institute�s (EPRI�s) Renewables Integration program (P174). Together, these projects and the data they provide will lay the ...
Solar PV Market Update, Volume 4: Q4 2012
Volume 4 of EPRI�s quarterly Solar PV Market Update provides continued insight into some of the front line trends that are afoot throughout the photovoltaic segment. Like previous Updates, it synthesizes primary as well as secondary data from multiple sources in an effort to highlight both macro and micro industry developments that are likely to impact utility solar PV investment and planning efforts. Specifically, this report discusses the increasing impact of balance-of-system (BOS) ...
Designing PV Incentive Programs to Promote Performance: A Reviewof Current Practice
Increasing levels of financial support for customer-sited photovoltaic (PV) systems, provided through publicly-funded incentive programs, has heightened concerns about the long-term performance of these systems. Given the barriers that customers face to ensuring that their PV systems perform well, and the responsibility that PV incentive programs bear to ensure that public funds are prudently spent, these programs should, and often do, play a critical role in ensuring that PV systems receiving incentives perform well. To provide a point of reference for assessing the current state of the art, and to inform program design efforts going forward, we examine the approaches to encouraging PV system performance used by 32 prominent PV incentive programs in the U.S. We identify eight general strategies or groups of related strategies that these programs have used to address performance issues, and highlight important differences in the implementation of these strategies among programs.
PSCAD Modules Representing PV Generator
Photovoltaic power plants (PVPs) have been growing in size, and the installation time is very short. With the cost of photovoltaic (PV) panels dropping in recent years, it can be predicted that in the next 10 years the contribution of PVPs to the total number of renewable energy power plants will grow significantly. In this project, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed a dynamic modeling of the modules to be used as building blocks to develop simulation models of single PV arrays, expanded to include Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT), expanded to include PV inverter, or expanded to cover an entire PVP. The focus of the investigation and complexity of the simulation determines the components that must be included in the simulation. The development of the PV inverter was covered in detail, including the control diagrams. Both the current-regulated voltage source inverter and the current-regulated current source inverter were developed in PSCAD. Various operations of the PV inverters were simulated under normal and abnormal conditions. Symmetrical and unsymmetrical faults were simulated, presented, and discussed. Both the three-phase analysis and the symmetrical component analysis were included to clarify the understanding of unsymmetrical faults. The dynamic model validation was based on the testing data provided by SCE. Testing was conducted at SCE with the focus on the grid interface behavior of the PV inverter under different faults and disturbances. The dynamic model validation covers both the symmetrical and unsymmetrical faults.
Muljadi, E.; Singh, M.; Gevorgian, V.
Shaking Up the Residential PV Market: Implications of Recent Changes to the ITC
E NERGY Shaking Up the Residential PV Market: Implicationsthe Revised Residential Credit ..ITC (capped at $2,000) for residential solar systems. Both
Bolinger, Mark
Progress Energy Florida - SunSense Commercial PV Incentive Program |
Progress Energy Florida - SunSense Commercial PV Incentive Program Progress Energy Florida - SunSense Commercial PV Incentive Program Progress Energy Florida - SunSense Commercial PV Incentive Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate 130,000 per participant Program Info Start Date 03/15/2011 State Florida Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount First 10 kW: 2/watt 11 kW - 50 kW: 1.50/watt 51 kW - 100 kW: 1/watt Provider Business Customer Service '''''Progress Energy Florida will begin accepting applications at 10:00 a.m. October 1, 2012, for customers to apply for the 2013 rebates.''''' In March 2011, Progress Energy Florida began offering incentives to commercial customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems. Incentive rates are based on a tiered structure:
Pacific Power - PV Rebate Program (California) | Department of Energy
Pacific Power - PV Rebate Program (California) Pacific Power - PV Rebate Program (California) Pacific Power - PV Rebate Program (California) < Back Eligibility Agricultural Commercial Fed. Government Industrial Residential Schools State Government Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Commercial: $90,000 Tax-exempt Entities: $277,500 Program Info Start Date 07/01/2011 Expiration Date 07/1/2015 State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Incentives may be adjusted based on expected performance. Incentive amounts below are current as of 12/14/12. See program website for current status. Residential: $1.13/W CEC-AC Commercial: $0.36/W CEC-AC Tax-exempt Entities: $1.11/W CEC-AC Pacific Power is providing rebates to their customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their homes and facilities. These rebates step
Maricopa Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating
Maricopa Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating Maricopa Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating Permitting Standards Maricopa Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating Permitting Standards < Back Eligibility Commercial Construction Installer/Contractor Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Heating & Cooling Water Heating Program Info State Arizona Program Type Solar/Wind Permitting Standards Provider Maricopa Association of Governments In an effort to promote uniformity, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) approved standard procedures for securing necessary electrical/building permits for residential (single-family) and commercial PV systems. These procedures are a part of the MAG Building Code Standards. The standards address requirements for the solar installation, plans,
Proceedings of the IEA implementing agreement on photovoltaic power systems. Annex 4 workshop
The International Energy Agency (IEA) Implementing Agreement on Photovoltaic Power Systems (PVPS), established in 1993, is a collaborative effort of sponsoring countries to reduce costs of technology applications, increase awareness of potential value, and foster market deployment of PV. Task 4, the Modeling of Distributed Photovoltaic Power Generation in Support of the Electric Grid, is one of six project work areas established under the Implementing Agreement. The work under Task 4 has been assigned to Annex 4. Although Task 4 was framed in 1993, no progress had been made in implementation as of mid-1995. The Annex 4 Workshop, described herein, was a focused effort by the participants to redefine the issuer in light of today`s knowledge, and to gain interest among potential collaborators and participants. The purpose of the workshop was to determine the current status of methods for evaluating the benefits of and planning for grid-connected PV systems and to establish a plan for further action according to the needs and priorities of participants.
How Can We Make PV Modules Safer?: Preprint
Safety is a prime concern for the photovoltaics (PV) industry. As a technology deployed on residential and commercial buildings, it is critical that PV not cause damage to the buildings nor harm the occupants. Many of the PV systems on buildings are of sufficiently high voltage (300 to 600 Volts dc) that they may present potential hazards. These PV systems must be safe in terms of mechanical damage (nothing falls on someone), shock hazard (no risk of electrical shock when touching an exposed circuit element), and fire (the modules neither cause nor promote a fire). The present safety standards (IEC 61730 and UL 1703) do a good job of providing for design rules and test requirements for mechanical, shock, and spread of flame dangers. However, neither standard addresses the issue of electrical arcing within a module that can cause a fire. To make PV modules, they must be designed, built, and installed with an emphasis on minimizing the potential for open circuits and ground faults. This paper provides recommendations on redundant connection designs, robust mounting methods, and changes to the safety standards to yield safer PV modules.
Wohlgemuth, J. H.; Kurtz, S. R.
Review of PV Inverter Technology Cost and Performance Projections
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has a major responsibility in the implementation of the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Solar Energy Technologies Program. Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) has a major role in supporting inverter development, characterization, standards, certifications, and verifications. The Solar Energy Technologies Program recently published a Multiyear Technical Plan, which establishes a goal of reducing the Levelized Energy Cost (LEC) for photovoltaic (PV) systems to $0.06/kWh by 2020. The Multiyear Technical Plan estimates that, in order to meet the PV system goal, PV inverter prices will need to decline to $0.25-0.30 Wp by 2020. DOE determined the need to conduct a rigorous review of the PV Program's technical and economic targets, including the target set for PV inverters. NREL requested that Navigant Consulting Inc.(NCI) conduct a review of historical and projected cost and performance improvements for PV inverters, including identification of critical barriers identified and the approaches government might use to address them.
Navigant Consulting Inc.
PV FAQs: How Much Land Will PV Need to Supply Our Electricity?
This PV FAQ fact sheet answers the question ''How much land will PV need to supply our electricity?'' The answer is that PV could supply our electricity with little visible impact on our landscape.
Consumer's Guide: Get Your Power from the Sun
DOE R&D Accomplishments (OSTI)
Photovoltaics; PV; Grid-Connected; Net Metering; Solar Electricity; Consumer Guides; Solar Energy - Photovoltaics
Starrs, T.; Wenger, H.
solar PV | OpenEI
PV PV Dataset Summary Description This dataset highlights trends in financing terms for U.S. renewable energy projects that closed financing between Q3 2009 and Q3 2010. Information tracked includes debt interest rates, equity returns, financial structure applied, PPA duration, and other information. NREL's Renewable Energy Finance Tracking Initiative (REFTI) tracks renewable energy project financing terms by technology and project size. The intelligence gathered is intended to reveal industry trends and to inform input assumptions for models. Source NREL Date Released March 27th, 2011 (3 years ago) Date Updated Unknown Keywords biomass financial geothermal project finance solar PV wind onshore Data application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.spreadsheetml.sheet icon RE Project Finance Trends Q3 2009 - Q3 2010 (xlsx, 309.2 KiB)
Comparison of Pyranometers vs. PV Reference Cells for Evaluation of PV Array Performance
As the photovoltaics (PV) industry has grown, the need for accurately monitoring the solar resource of PV power plants has increased. Historically, the PV industry has relied on thermopile pyranometers for irradiance measurements, and a large body of historical irradiance data taken with pyranometers exists. However, interest in PV reference devices is increasing. In this paper, we discuss why PV reference devices are better suited for PV applications, and estimate the typical uncertainties in irradiance measurements made with both pyranometers and PV reference devices. We assert that the quantity of interest in monitoring a PV power plant is the equivalent irradiance under the IEC 60904-3 reference solar spectrum that would produce the same electrical response in the PV array as the incident solar radiation. For PV-plant monitoring applications, we find the uncertainties in irradiance measurements of this type to be on the order of +/-5% for thermopile pyranometers and +/-2.4% for PV reference devices.
Dunn, L.; Gostein, M.; Emery, K.
An Analysis of the Effects of Residential Photovoltaic Energy Systems on Home Sales Prices in California
Market Value of Residential Solar PV. Journal of SustainableConclusions The market for solar PV is expanding rapidly ingrid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) energy systems were
Markets. Rowlands, I. 2005. �Solar PV Electricity and Market2003. �Maximizing PV Peak Shaving with Solar Load Control:sited photovoltaic (PV) systems, solar will likely need to
Results from Undergraduate PV Projects at Seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities
In 1995, the NREL/Department of Energy (DOE) National Photovoltaics Program funded seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in its HBCU Photovoltaic Research Associates Program for a period of three years. The program's purpose is to advance HBCU undergraduate knowledge of photovoltaics, primarily as a result of research investigations performed, and to encourage students to pursue careers in photovoltaics. This paper presents results from PV projects ranging from fundamental materials research on PV materials to field projects of PV systems.
McConnell, R. D.
Great River Energy (28 Member Cooperatives) - Solar-Electric...
member cooperative utilities* offer a rebate of 2,000 per kilowatt for grid-connected solar-electric (PV) systems, with a maximum award of 4,000 per customer. For...
Letting the Sun Shine on Solar Costs: An Empirical Investigation...
and Japan. The results presented here are based on an analysis of 18,942 grid-connected PV systems totaling 254 MWAC, either installed, approved for installation, or waitlisted...
Renewables Portfolio Standards in the United States
United States from 1998 to 2011 1 Executive Summar y As the deployment of grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has increased, so too has the desire to track the...
Action South Facing | Open Energy Information
navigation, search Name Action South Facing Place United Kingdom Zip HP2 6HG Sector Buildings Product UK-based installer of grid-connected PV systems on commercial buildings in...
PV Frontogenesis and Upper-Tropospheric Fronts
Upper-tropospheric fronts and frontogenesis are viewed from a potental vorticity (PV) perspective. The rudiments of this approach are to regard such a front as a zone of strong PV gradient on isentropic surfaces, and to treat the accompanying ...
H. C. Davies; A. M. Rossa
Solar PV Solar PV Energy 101: Solar PV Addthis Below is the text version for the Energy 101: Solar PV video. The video opens with "Energy 101: Solar PV." This is followed by a timelapse shot of a city skyline as day turns to night. All right, we all know that the sun's energy creates heat and light, but it can also be converted to make electricity...and lots of it. The video shows images of building roofs, with and without solar photovoltaic panels. The words "Solar Photovoltaics (PV) appear onscreen over an image of a photovoltaic panel. One technology is called solar photovoltaics, or PV for short. Various images of solar panels appear onscreen, followed by images of photovoltaic manufacturing processes. You've probably seen PV panels around for years... but recent advancements
Photovoltaics for Buildings: Case Studies of High-Performance Buildings with PV
Energy efficiency maximizes the value of photovoltaics (PV) in buildings systems. A fixed-sizre PV system will offset a much larger part of the electrical load in an energy-efficient building than in a building whose energy design has not been optimized.
Hayter, S. J.; Torcellini, P. A.
New York City - Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) Equipment
Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) Equipment Expenditures New York City - Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) Equipment Expenditures < Back Eligibility Commercial Industrial Institutional Multi-Family Residential Nonprofit Residential Schools Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate $62,500 annually or the amount of real property taxes owed during a year Program Info Start Date 08/05/2008 State New York Program Type Property Tax Incentive Rebate Amount Installed from August 5, 2008 to December 31, 2010: 8.75% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 35%); Installed from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012: 5% of system expenditures per year for 4 years (total of 20%); Installed from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2014: 2.5% of system
PV AND GRID RELIABILITY: AVAILABILITY OF PV POWER DURING CAPACITY SHORTFALLS Richard Perez reliability benefits, is to look at PV availability during instances of major grid stress and supply shortfall of these events and show that PV+end-use load control could be 100% reliable with only a minimal end-use impact. 2
November 21, 2000 PV Lesson Plan 3 PV Array Generating Electricity
November 21, 2000 PV Lesson Plan 3 PV Array Generating Electricity Prepared for the Oregon in Arrays: Solar Cells Generating Electricity Lesson Plan Content: In this lesson, students will learn about electricity. Objectives: Students will learn to use a tool called PV WATTS to calculate the output of PV
New York Sun Competitive PV Program (New York) | Department of Energy
Sun Competitive PV Program (New York) Sun Competitive PV Program (New York) New York Sun Competitive PV Program (New York) < Back Eligibility Agricultural Commercial Construction Fuel Distributor Industrial Installer/Contractor Institutional Investor-Owned Utility Local Government Low-Income Residential Multi-Family Residential Municipal/Public Utility Nonprofit Residential Retail Supplier Rural Electric Cooperative Schools Systems Integrator Tribal Government Utility Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Program Info State New York Program Type Renewables Portfolio Standards and Goals Provider New York State Energy Research and Development Authority The New York Sun Competitive Photovoltaic (PV) Program is an expansion of the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) Customer-Sited Tier Regional Program
California Solar Initiative - PV Incentives | Department of Energy
PV Incentives California Solar Initiative - PV Incentives Eligibility Agricultural Commercial Fed. Government Industrial Institutional Local Government Low-Income Residential...
PV Module Reliability R&D Project Overview
The DOE Solar Energy Technologies Program includes a sub-key activity entitled ''Photovoltaic Module Reliability R&D''. This activity has been in existence for several years to help ensure that the PV technologies that advance to the commercial module stage have acceptable service lifetimes and annual performance degradation rates. The long-term (2020) goal, as stated in the Solar Program Multi-Year Technical Plan [1], is to assist industry with the development of PV systems that have 30-year service lifetimes and 1% annual performance degradation rates. The corresponding module service lifetimes and annual performance degradation rate would have to be 30 years lifetime and approximately 0.5% (or less, depending on the type of PV system) annual performance degradation. Reaching this goal is critical to achieving the PV technology Levelized Energy Cost Targets, as listed and described in the Solar Program Multi-Year Technical Plan. This paper is an overview of the Module Reliability R&D sub-key activity. More details and the major results and accomplishments are covered in the papers presented in the PV Module Reliability Session of the DOE Solar Energy Technology Review Meeting, October 25-28, 2004, in Denver, Colorado.
Hulstrom, R. L.
Integration of PV modules in existing Romanian buildings
The paper is based on an on-going national research project focused on the promotion of new architectural concepts i.e. BIPV systems, which include active solar systems (PV generators) and solar tunnels. The advantages of using the distributed solar ...
S. Fara; D. Finta; M. Iancu; L. Fara; A. M. Dabija; E. Tulcan-Paulescu
Fault Current Contribution from Single-Phase PV Inverters
A significant increase in photovoltaic (PV) system installations is expected to come on line in the near future and as the penetration level of PV increases, the effect of PV may no longer be considered minimal. One of the most important attributions of additional PV is what effect this may have on protection systems. Protection engineers design protection systems to safely eliminate faults from the electric power system. One of the new technologies recently introduced into the electric power system are distributed energy resources (DER). Currently, inverter-based DER contributes very little to the power balance on all but a few utility distribution systems. As DER become prevalent in the distribution system, equipment rating capability and coordination of protection systems merit a closer investigation. A collaborative research effort between the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Southern California Edison (SCE) involved laboratory short-circuit testing single-phase (240 VAC) residential type (between 1.5 and 7kW) inverters. This paper will reveal test results obtained from these short-circuit tests.
Keller, J.; Kroposki, B.; Bravo, R.; Robles, S.
Progress Energy Carolinas - SunSense Residential PV Incentive Program |
You are here You are here Home » Progress Energy Carolinas - SunSense Residential PV Incentive Program Progress Energy Carolinas - SunSense Residential PV Incentive Program < Back Eligibility Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Program Info State North Carolina Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Program is fully subscribed for 2013 $500 per kilowatt AC, plus a monthly bill credit of $4.50 per kW Provider Progress Energy Carolinas '''''Note: This program is budgeted to support a total of 1 MW of residential systems per year. The program is now fully subscribed for 2013. New applications will be accepted starting January 1, 2014. ''''' Progress Energy is offering incentives for their residential customers to install photovoltaics (PV) systems on their homes through their SunSense
City of San Diego RFP for Power Purchase (PV)
City of San Diego City of San Diego Environmental Services Department Energy Conservation and Management Division Request for Proposal For Power Purchase of Renewable Energy (Photovoltaics) For City Facilities The City of San Diego is seeking a firm, or a team of firms, to provide cost effective solar photovoltaic electric generating systems at eight City sites. The City intends to enter into power purchase agreement(s) for terms up to twenty years with solar PV developer(s) at these sites. The developers may also be asked to assist the City with identifying implementing solar PV projects at other sites depending upon the success of the initial program. The City evaluated twenty four facilities that appear to have potential of accommodating solar PV systems ranging in size from 30 kilowatts to 1
Tucson's Solar Experience: Developing PV with RFPs and PPAs
Tucson's Solar Experience: Tucson's Solar Experience: Developing PV with RFPs and PPAs Bruce Plenk Solar Coordinator City of Tucson Office of Conservation and Sustainable Development DOE EERE- January 15, 2013 Developing PV Projects with RFPs and PPAs Tucson's Solar Investment (1999- 2008) * $960,000 cumulative solar investment with City general funds. * Over $200,000 leveraged from solar grants & utility rebates. * Bus shelter solar funded through advertising. * System size range: 3 kW- 64 kW (plus some solar hot water systems). * 220 kW total installed on 8 City sites. DOE EERE- January 15, 2013 Developing PV Projects with RFPs and PPAs Pre-RFP Decisions: site selection Plan A * Property owner selects sites; vendor determines details and
U.S. Aims for Zero-Energy: Support for PV on New Homes
As a market segment for solar photovoltaic (PV) adoption, new homes have a number of attractive attributes. Homebuyers can easily roll the cost of the PV system into their mortgage and, with rebates or other financial incentives, potentially realize an immediate net positive cash flow from the investment. PV system performance can be optimized by taking roof orientation, shading, and other structural factors into account in the design of new homes. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), which are subject to fewer aesthetic concerns than traditional, rack-mounted systems, are well-suited to new construction applications. In large new residential developments, costs can be reduced through bulk purchases and scale economies in system design and installation. Finally, the ability to install PV as a standard feature in new developments - like common household appliances - creates an opportunity to circumvent the high transaction costs and other barriers typically confronted when each individual homeowner must make a distinct PV purchase decision.
September 16 ESTAP Webinar: Optimizing the Benefits of a PV with Battery
September 16 ESTAP Webinar: Optimizing the Benefits of a PV with September 16 ESTAP Webinar: Optimizing the Benefits of a PV with Battery Storage System September 16 ESTAP Webinar: Optimizing the Benefits of a PV with Battery Storage System August 30, 2013 - 12:34pm Addthis On Monday, September 16 from 1 - 2 p.m. ET, Clean Energy States Alliance will host a webinar on optimizing the benefits of a photovoltaic (PV) storage system with a battery. This webinar will be introduced by Dr. Imre Gyuk, Energy Storage Program Manager in the Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability. The webinar will discuss PNM's Prosperity Energy Storage Project, which is partly funded through DOE's Recovery Act Smart Grid Storage Demonstration Program. The project has successfully demonstrated optimizing the storage and delivery of energy using a PV with battery system. The
Why Are Residential PV Prices in Germany So Much Lower Than in the United States?
Why Are Residential PV Prices in Germany So Much Lower Than in the United States? A Scoping Project development time Economies of scale in residential system size Chinese module market share · Summary · Bibliography 3 #12;Motivation, Scope, and Limitations · The installed price of residential PV
Impact of Residential PV Adoption on Retail Electricity Desmond W. H. Caia,
, Newport Beach, CA 92660, USA. Abstract The price of electricity supplied from home rooftop photo voltaic (PV) solar cells has fallen below the retail price of grid electricity in some areas. A num- ber of residential households have an economic incentive to install rooftop PV systems and reduce their purchases
Time series power flow analysis for distribution connected PV generation.
Distributed photovoltaic (PV) projects must go through an interconnection study process before connecting to the distribution grid. These studies are intended to identify the likely impacts and mitigation alternatives. In the majority of the cases, system impacts can be ruled out or mitigation can be identified without an involved study, through a screening process or a simple supplemental review study. For some proposed projects, expensive and time-consuming interconnection studies are required. The challenges to performing the studies are twofold. First, every study scenario is potentially unique, as the studies are often highly specific to the amount of PV generation capacity that varies greatly from feeder to feeder and is often unevenly distributed along the same feeder. This can cause location-specific impacts and mitigations. The second challenge is the inherent variability in PV power output which can interact with feeder operation in complex ways, by affecting the operation of voltage regulation and protection devices. The typical simulation tools and methods in use today for distribution system planning are often not adequate to accurately assess these potential impacts. This report demonstrates how quasi-static time series (QSTS) simulation and high time-resolution data can be used to assess the potential impacts in a more comprehensive manner. The QSTS simulations are applied to a set of sample feeders with high PV deployment to illustrate the usefulness of the approach. The report describes methods that can help determine how PV affects distribution system operations. The simulation results are focused on enhancing the understanding of the underlying technical issues. The examples also highlight the steps needed to perform QSTS simulation and describe the data needed to drive the simulations. The goal of this report is to make the methodology of time series power flow analysis readily accessible to utilities and others responsible for evaluating potential PV impacts.
Broderick, Robert Joseph; Quiroz, Jimmy Edward; Ellis, Abraham; Reno, Matthew J. [Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA; Smith, Jeff [Electric Power Research Institute, Knoxville, TN; Dugan, Roger [Electric Power Research Institute, Knoxville, TN
Shanghai JTU PV Technology Co Ltd | Open Energy Information
JTU PV Technology Co Ltd JTU PV Technology Co Ltd Jump to: navigation, search Name Shanghai JTU PV Technology Co Ltd Place Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China Zip 200240 Sector Solar Product Spun off from Shanghai Jiaotong University, the company manufactures control systems and testing equipments for solar water heaters. Coordinates 31.247709°, 121.472618° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":31.247709,"lon":121.472618,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Outdoor PV Module Degradation of Current-Voltage Parameters: Preprint
Photovoltaic (PV) module degradation rate analysis quantifies the loss of PV power output over time and is useful for estimating the impact of degradation on the cost of energy. An understanding of the degradation of all current-voltage (I-V) parameters helps to determine the cause of the degradation and also gives useful information for the design of the system. This study reports on data collected from 12 distinct mono- and poly-crystalline modules deployed at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. Most modules investigated showed < 0.5%/year decrease in maximum power due to short-circuit current decline.
Smith, R. M.; Jordan, D. C.; Kurtz, S. R.
PV cell and module performance measurement capabilities at NREL
The Photovoltaic (PV) Cell and Module Performance Characterization team at NREL supports the entire photovoltaic community by providing: secondary calibrations of photovoltaic cells and modules; efficiency measurements with respect to a given set of standard reporting conditions; verification of contract efficiency milestones; and current versus voltage (I-V) measurements under various conditions of temperature, spectral irradiance, and total irradiance. Support is also provided to in-house programs in device fabrication, module stability, module reliability, PV systems evaluations, and alternative rating methods by performing baseline testing, specialized measurements and other assistance when required. The I-V and spectral responsivity equipment used to accomplish these tasks are described in this paper.
Rummel, S.; Emery, K.; Field, H.; Moriarty, T.; Anderberg, A.; Dunlavy, D.; Ottoson, L.
The California Solar Initiative: Cost Trends in Customer-Sited PV
The California Solar Initiative: Cost Trends in Customer-Sited PV The California Solar Initiative: Cost Trends in Customer-Sited PV Installations and the Impact of Retail Rate Design on the Economics of PV Systems Speaker(s): Ryan Wiser Date: January 9, 2007 - 12:00pm Location: 90-3122 Seminar Host/Point of Contact: Anita Estner California's new solar initiative will dedicate over $3 billion of public funds to support the installation of customer-sited solar installations in the state over the next 10 years, principally in the form of residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) systems. These efforts build from historical programs that have made California the third largest PV market in the world, behind Germany and Japan. This talk will summarize recent efforts at Berkeley Lab to advise the state's energy agencies in the design
Introduction of Break-Out Session at the International PV Module Quality Assurance Forum (Presentation)
This presentation outlines review requirements for quality assurance (QA) rating systems, logical design of QA systems, and specific tasks for break-out session 1 of the 2011 International PV Module Quality Assurance Forum.
Kurtz, S.; Wohlgemuth, J.; Yamamichi, M.; Sample, T.
Creating dynamic equivalent PV circuit models with impedance spectroscopy for arc-fault modeling.
Article 690.11 in the 2011 National Electrical Code{reg_sign} (NEC{reg_sign}) requires new photovoltaic (PV) systems on or penetrating a building to include a listed arc fault protection device. Currently there is little experimental or empirical research into the behavior of the arcing frequencies through PV components despite the potential for modules and other PV components to filter or attenuate arcing signatures that could render the arc detector ineffective. To model AC arcing signal propagation along PV strings, the well-studied DC diode models were found to inadequately capture the behavior of high frequency arcing signals. Instead dynamic equivalent circuit models of PV modules were required to describe the impedance for alternating currents in modules. The nonlinearities present in PV cells resulting from irradiance, temperature, frequency, and bias voltage variations make modeling these systems challenging. Linearized dynamic equivalent circuits were created for multiple PV module manufacturers and module technologies. The equivalent resistances and capacitances for the modules were determined using impedance spectroscopy with no bias voltage and no irradiance. The equivalent circuit model was employed to evaluate modules having irradiance conditions that could not be measured directly with the instrumentation. Although there was a wide range of circuit component values, the complex impedance model does not predict filtering of arc fault frequencies in PV strings for any irradiance level. Experimental results with no irradiance agree with the model and show nearly no attenuation for 1 Hz to 100 kHz input frequencies.
Johnson, Jay Dean; Kuszmaul, Scott S.; Strauch, Jason E.; Schoenwald, David Alan
Benchmarking Utility Best Business Practices and Processes for Managing High Penetration PV: Case Studies and Lessons Learned
Distributed photovoltaic (PV) power systems are deploying into electric system distribution at increasing rates. The resulting rise in penetration of variable PV generation is, in turn, posing escalating utility grid management challenges, some more pronounced than others in specific pockets of the United States. Grid hosting studies and modeling efforts have helped to build foundational knowledge about the impacts of high penetration PV (HPPV). But, to date, there has been a relative dearth of ...
Solar PV Market Update, October 2013
Volume 7 of EPRI�s quarterly Solar PV Market Update provides continued insight into some of the front line trends that are afoot throughout the photovoltaic segment. Like previous Updates, it synthesizes primary and secondary data from multiple sources in an effort to highlight economic, policy, and technology developments that are likely to impact utility solar PV investment and planning efforts.This report investigates some of the recent PV market and policy developments that ...
Innovations in Wind and Solar PV Financing
Innovations in Wind and Solar PV Financing K. Cory, J. Coughlin, and T. Jenkin National Renewable Energy Laboratory J. Pater Summit Blue B. Swezey Applied Materials Technical...
Low Cost Nanomaterials for PV Devices
Impact: Low-cost solution for solar energy (Expand to lighting, batteries, etc) Low-cost Nanomaterials for PV Devices . Title: Slide 1 Author: Donna ...
Ensuring Quality of PV Modules: Preprint
Photovoltaic (PV) customers need to have confidence in the PV modules they purchase. Currently, no test can quantify a module's lifetime with confidence, but stress tests are routinely used to differentiate PV product designs. We suggest that the industry would be strengthened by using the wisdom of the community to develop a single set of tests that will help customers quantify confidence in PV products. This paper evaluates the need for quality assurance (QA) standards and suggests a path for creating these. Two types of standards are needed: 1) QA of the module design and 2) QA of the manufacturing process.
Kurtz, S.; Wohlgemuth, J.; Hacke, P.; Kempe, M.; Sample, T.; Yamamichi, M.; Kondo, M.; Doi, T.; Otani, K.; Amano, J.
Polysilicon in Photovoltaics: Market Conditions & Competing PV ...
That data, along with projections regarding the growth in installed PV capacity, are used to predict demand the solar industry will place on materials used in�...
Designing PV Incentive Programs to Promote Performance: A Reviewof Current Practice in the U.S.
In the U.S., the increasing financial support for customer-sited photovoltaic (PV) systems provided through publicly-funded incentive programs has heightened concerns about the long-term performance of these systems. Given the barriers that customers face to ensuring that their PV systems perform well, and the responsibility that PV incentive programs bear to ensure that public funds are prudently spent, these programs should, and often do, play a critical role in addressing PV system performance. To provide a point of reference for assessing the current state of the art, and to inform program design efforts going forward, we examine the approaches to encouraging PV system performance used by 32 prominent PV incentive programs in the U.S. We identify eight general strategies or groups of related strategies that these programs have used to address factors that affect performance, and describe key implementation details. Based on this review, we then offer recommendations for how PV incentive programs can be effectively designed to mitigate potential performance issues.
Online fault detection and tolerance for photovoltaic energy harvesting systems
Photovoltaic energy harvesting systems (PV systems) are subject to PV cell faults, which decrease the efficiency of PV systems and even shorten the PV system lifespan. Manual PV cell fault detection and elimination are expensive and nearly impossible ... Keywords: fault detection, fault tolerance, photovoltaic panel reconfiguration, photovoltaic system
Xue Lin; Yanzhi Wang; Di Zhu; Naehyuck Chang; Massoud Pedram
AEP Texas North Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program | Department
North Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program North Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program AEP Texas North Company - SMART Source Solar PV Rebate Program < Back Eligibility Agricultural Commercial Fed. Government Industrial Institutional Local Government Multi-Family Residential Nonprofit Residential Schools State Government Tribal Government Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Residential: $15,000 Non-residential: $30,000 Program Info Start Date 08/01/2009 State Texas Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Residential: $1.50/watt DC Non-residential: $1.20/watt DC Provider Smart Source PV Program American Electric Power Texas North Company (AEP-TNC) offers rebates to customers that install photovoltaic (PV) systems on homes or other buildings. Customers of all rate classes (e.g., residential, commercial)
Future of Grid-Tied PV Business Models: What Will Happen When PV Penetration on the Distribution Grid is Significant? Preprint
Eventually, distributed PV will become a more significant part of the generation mix. When this happens, it is expected that utilities will have to take on a more active role in the placement, operation and control of these systems. There are operational complexities and concerns of revenue erosion that will drive utilities into greater involvement of distributed PV and will create new business models. This report summarizes work done by Navigant Consulting Inc. for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory as part of the Department of Energy's work on Renewable System Integration. The objective of the work was to better understand the structure of these future business models and the research, development and demonstration (RD&D) required to support their deployment. This report describes potential future PV business models in terms of combinations of utility ownership and control of the PV assets, and the various relationships between end-users and third-party owners.
Graham, S.; Katofsky, R.; Frantzis, L.; Sawyer, H.; Margolis, R.
Validation of PV performance models using satellite-based irradiance measurements : a case study.
Photovoltaic (PV) system performance models are relied upon to provide accurate predictions of energy production for proposed and existing PV systems under a wide variety of environmental conditions. Ground based meteorological measurements are only available from a relatively small number of locations. In contrast, satellite-based radiation and weather data (e.g., SUNY database) are becoming increasingly available for most locations in North America, Europe, and Asia on a 10 x 10 km grid or better. This paper presents a study of how PV performance model results are affected when satellite-based weather data is used in place of ground-based measurements.
Stein, Joshua S.; Parkins, Andrew (Clean Power Research); Perez, Richard (University at Albany)
PV Testing Group Photovoltaic Cell Data Compilation
PV Testing Group Photovoltaic Cell Data Compilation National Renewable Energy Laboratory 4/2/2010 ______________________________________ Page 1 *NREL Photovoltaic Cell Data Compilation Calibration Conducted For: Kaitlyn VanSant (for Solasta Contact: Paul Ciszek (303) 384-6647 email@example.com #12;PV Testing Group Photovoltaic Cell Data
Burns, Michael J.
PV FAQs: Does the world have enough materials for PV to help address climate change?
In the ongoing discussion of what needs to be done to stabilize atmospheric CO2 by mid-century (Hoffert 1998), one possible option would be to add about 10-20 terawatts (trillion watts, or TW) of photovoltaics (PV) in place of conventional sources. PV would help because, unlike burning fossil fuels, it produces no CO2. However, 10-20 TW is an enormous amount of energy. In peak Watts, the way PV installations are generally rated, it is about 50-100 TWpeak (TWp) of PV. Would we have enough materials to make this much PV? As we explain in this PV FAQ, we think our planet has enough feedstock materials for PV to meet the ''TW challenge.''
Tracking the Sun II: The Installed Cost of Photovoltaics in the U.S. from 1998-2008
in the wholesale price of PV modules and the averagein the wholesale price of PV modules and the averagein: module prices, technical standards for grid-connected PV
Barbose, Galen L
PV Strom | Open Energy Information
Strom Strom Jump to: navigation, search Name PV Strom Place Kirchheim, Germany Zip 74366 Sector Biomass, Hydro, Renewable Energy, Solar, Wind energy Product Germany-based renewable energy project developer, focused mainly on solar, but also active in wind, hydro and biomass generation. Coordinates 50.881988°, 11.019413° Loading map... {"minzoom":false,"mappingservice":"googlemaps3","type":"ROADMAP","zoom":14,"types":["ROADMAP","SATELLITE","HYBRID","TERRAIN"],"geoservice":"google","maxzoom":false,"width":"600px","height":"350px","centre":false,"title":"","label":"","icon":"","visitedicon":"","lines":[],"polygons":[],"circles":[],"rectangles":[],"copycoords":false,"static":false,"wmsoverlay":"","layers":[],"controls":["pan","zoom","type","scale","streetview"],"zoomstyle":"DEFAULT","typestyle":"DEFAULT","autoinfowindows":false,"kml":[],"gkml":[],"fusiontables":[],"resizable":false,"tilt":0,"kmlrezoom":false,"poi":true,"imageoverlays":[],"markercluster":false,"searchmarkers":"","locations":[{"text":"","title":"","link":null,"lat":50.881988,"lon":11.019413,"alt":0,"address":"","icon":"","group":"","inlineLabel":"","visitedicon":""}]}
Research Report Trees, people and the built
application-specific user-oriented numerical models and advanced algorithms. The system is being validated to the project SoDa are those related to the engineering of solar systems, and to buildings and daylight- ing performance of solar home PV-systems Modeling performance of grid connected PV-systems Daylighting
Arima Photovoltaic And Optical Corp Arima PV | Open Energy Information
Photovoltaic And Optical Corp Arima PV Jump to: navigation, search Name Arima Photovoltaic And Optical Corp (Arima PV) Place Taipei, Taiwan Product Once a maker of computers, the...
Photovoltaic (PV) Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near...
Photovoltaic (PV) Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near-Term Projections Title Photovoltaic (PV) Pricing Trends: Historical, Recent, and Near-Term Projections Publication...
New York City - Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV)...
Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) Equipment Expenditures New York City - Property Tax Abatement for Photovoltaic (PV) Equipment Expenditures Eligibility Commercial...
ESS 2012 Peer Review - PV Plus Storage for Simultaneous Voltage...
Meter *Advancing Automation and Sophistication Firmed PV Production *Automated cloud forecast retrieval A t t d PV Automated Shifting - 612 Summer Schedule (Afternoon Peak)...
CPS Energy - Solar PV Rebate Program | Department of Energy
Sites Power Marketing Administration Other Agencies You are here Home Savings CPS Energy - Solar PV Rebate Program CPS Energy - Solar PV Rebate Program Eligibility...
Turlock Irrigation District - PV Rebate | Department of Energy
Turlock Irrigation District - PV Rebate Turlock Irrigation District - PV Rebate Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings For Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate 50%...
Beijing Sunpu Solar PV Technology Co Ltd | Open Energy Information
Sunpu Solar PV Technology Co Ltd Jump to: navigation, search Name Beijing Sunpu Solar PV Technology Co Ltd Place Beijing, Beijing Municipality, China Zip 100083 Sector Solar...
Department of Veterans Affairs, FONSI - Rooftop solar PV power...
Rooftop solar PV power at Calverton National Cemetery Department of Veterans Affairs, FONSI - Rooftop solar PV power at Calverton National Cemetery An Environmental Assessment (EA)...
Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating Permitting Standards Maricopa Assn. of Governments - PV and Solar Domestic Water Heating Permitting Standards Eligibility...
City of Gridley Utilities - PV Buy Down Program | Department of Energy
Gridley Utilities - PV Buy Down Program Gridley Utilities - PV Buy Down Program City of Gridley Utilities - PV Buy Down Program < Back Eligibility Commercial Residential Savings Category Solar Buying & Making Electricity Maximum Rebate Program is currently on hold Program Info State California Program Type Utility Rebate Program Rebate Amount Program is currently on hold Provider City of Gridley Utilities '''''Funding for this program is currently exhausted. The summary below describes incentives as they were in 2010 and 2011. Incentive levels for the next funding round are still unknown.''''' City of Gridley is providing rebates of $2.80/W for their customers installing PV systems. Individual rebates are limited to $5,600 per system, and the utility will award a total of $41,700 in rebates per year. Systems