Analysis of real performance and seasonal prediction of a 23 MWp grid-connected photovoltaic plant in Senegal: Case of Diass

Abstract

Grid-connected solar photovoltaic power plants have been developed in Senegal, significantly contributing to the country's energy mix, both to improve energy coverage and combat global warming. However, the performance of these existing plants has not yet been subject to in-depth analysis aimed at optimizing PV production and promoting the deployment of new photovoltaic installations in the country. This study seeks to evaluate the performance of the 23 MWp Diass power plant over a one-year period, in accordance with the IEC 61724 standard. The performance parameters examined indicate annual average reference, PV array, and final yields of 5.83 h/d, 4.17 h/d, and 3.95 h/d, respectively. The performance ratio varies between 64.65 % and 75.82 %, while the capacity utilization factor ranges from 13.80 % to 20.49 %. The results demonstrate better performance during the dry season, along with accurate energy production predictions using the PVWatts and PVUSA models during the rainy season.