Module 2 — Solar Photovoltaic and Concentrated Solar Power Systems
Synopsis: This module provides a comprehensive examination of solar energy conversion technologies, focusing on both photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) systems. It covers the physical principles of solar radiation, device-level energy conversion, system sizing, and performance modeling. Students will analyze PV cell characteristics, explore maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control, and evaluate techno-economic considerations for integrating solar systems into the smart grid.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the principles of solar radiation, irradiance, and their measurement.
- Differentiate between photovoltaic and concentrated solar power technologies.
- Model the electrical characteristics of PV cells and arrays using equivalent circuits.
- Design and simulate maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms.
- Evaluate the technical performance and economic feasibility of solar integration within smart grids.
Indicative Workload
Total 10 hours (typical week): 3 h lecture, 3 h lab/tutorial, 2 h directed reading, 2 h assessment preparation.
Lecture Outline
- Solar Resource Fundamentals — Solar constant, spectral distribution, atmospheric attenuation, and irradiance models (GHI, DNI, DHI).
- Photovoltaic Principles — Semiconductor physics of PN junctions, IV characteristics, efficiency factors, temperature effects, and shading losses.
- PV System Components — Modules, arrays, inverters, and balance-of-system components; grid-connected vs stand-alone systems.
- Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) — Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance, and advanced adaptive algorithms.
- Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) — Optical design (parabolic trough, tower, dish), thermal energy storage integration, and hybridization strategies.
Laboratory / Tutorial Activity
Title: PV Array Performance Simulation and MPPT Control
Objectives:
- Model a PV module and extract its IV and PV characteristics under different irradiance and temperature conditions.
- Implement and test a simple MPPT algorithm using MATLAB/Octave or Python.
- Compare algorithm performance in steady-state and transient irradiance profiles.
- Interpret results in terms of tracking efficiency and energy yield improvement.
Software Tools: MATLAB/Simulink, Octave, or Python (NumPy, Matplotlib). Template scripts provided.
Lab Steps
- Import the provided PV module datasheet parameters (Voc, Isc, Pmax, α, β).
- Implement the single-diode PV model and plot IV and PV curves under standard test conditions (STC).
- Simulate curves for irradiance levels of 1000, 800, 600 W/m² and temperatures of 25°C and 50°C.
- Program a P&O MPPT algorithm and observe the dynamic convergence toward the true maximum power point.
- Compute tracking efficiency and discuss how sampling rate and step size affect convergence stability.
Deliverable: Laboratory report (maximum 5 pages) containing model equations, simulation results, graphs, and a short discussion (≤300 words) on algorithm performance.
Filename: Lastname_Module2_PVLab.pdf
Assessment Components
- Quiz (10%) — Short-answer and numerical questions on PV and CSP principles.
- Laboratory Report (40%) — PV modeling and MPPT implementation results.
- Technical Assignment (50%) — System design problem: size a 100 kW grid-tied PV system, estimate annual yield, and calculate LCOE.
Assessment Rubrics
| Criterion | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Technical accuracy | 40% | Correct modeling equations, consistent units, and validated results. |
| Interpretation and insight | 25% | Ability to explain results, identify sources of loss, and evaluate performance trends. |
| Structure and presentation | 20% | Logical flow, labeled figures, clear tables, and concise language. |
| References and professional formatting | 15% | Use of credible data sources, appropriate citation, and professional report layout. |
Recommended Reading
- Masters, G. M., Renewable and Efficient Electric Power Systems, Wiley, 2nd Ed., Chapters 7–8.
- Luque, A. & Hegedus, S. (eds.), Handbook of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering.
- IEA Technology Roadmap: Solar Photovoltaic Energy, latest edition.
- Fraunhofer ISE, Photovoltaics Report (annual performance benchmarks).
Instructor Notes
Reinforce the contrast between PV and CSP in terms of energy conversion mechanisms and dispatchability. Encourage students to consider environmental factors (irradiance variability, soiling, and temperature effects) when interpreting results. Connect findings to later modules on energy storage (Module 5) and grid integration (Module 6).
Sample Slide Pointers
- Solar spectrum and irradiance geometry diagrams.
- Equivalent circuit of a PV cell with diode, Rs, and Rsh.
- Comparison of fixed vs tracking PV systems.
- MPPT flowchart: Perturb & Observe algorithm logic.
- CSP configurations: parabolic trough, central tower, linear Fresnel, and dish.
References
- IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Energy — selected PV performance modeling papers.
- NREL System Advisor Model (SAM) documentation.
- SolarPACES CSP Technology Briefs.