Stochastic approach for maximum power point determination for bifacial PV modules by implementing two different cell models

Abstract

Purpose

This paper presents the determination of the maximum power point of a bifacial photovoltaic (PV) system using two different cell models. The optimal power point is determined by using genetic algorithm (GA), as an optimisation tool. The purpose of this paper is to find which of the two analysed models gives better results in the determination of the maximum power point of a bifacial PV system for different solar irradiations. The quality of the results gained from both models is analysed based on the value of the objective function.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research work, the maximum power point of bifacial PV modules is determined by using two different PV cell models, such as the simplified and two-diode models of PV cells. Based on the input electrical data for the analysed bifacial PV module as well as the mathematical model of the two PV cell presentations, the values for the current and the voltage at the maximum power point for a given solar irradiation and working temperature are determined by the algorithm for each solution in the population and generation.

Findings

From the presented results and the performed analysis, it can be concluded that GA is quite appropriate for this purpose and gives adequate results for both models and for all working conditions. The two-diode model was found to be more suitable compared with the simplified model due to its complexity. Therefore, although the power difference for each of the scenarios for the two compared models does not differ significantly among the two models, it is in favour of the two-diode model. Which implicates that the for fast and simple calculation the simplified model can also do the job.

Practical implications

This approach can be very successfully applied in the design process of a PV plant to forecast the output characteristics of the PV system if there is enough information about the weather conditions for a given location. This procedure can be very helpful in the process of selection of right PV module and inverter for a given location.

Originality/value

An optimisation technique using GA as an optimisation tool has been developed and successfully applied in the determination of the maximum power point for a bifacial PV module using to different models of solar cell. The results are compared with the analytically determined values as well as with the values given from the producer and they show good agreement.