Measurement of the Insolation Energy Parameters under the Terrestrial Operation Conditions of Photovoltaic Modules

Abstract

The structure, composition, and algorithm of operation of the measuring and computing system for measuring the energy parameters of insolation (solar radiation) under terrestrial conditions are presented. The system is capable of making continuous measurements and recording of the energy parameters of insolation and solar activity using commercial silicon photovoltaic modules of monocrystalline and polycrystalline types as the sensing devices. Real-time measurements of open-circuit voltages, short-circuit currents, currents and voltages at operating points of modules, and temperatures of modules and the environment are performed. The recorded parameters are processed, the current−voltage characteristics of the modules are determined based on the analytical model of solar panels, and the generated power and energy are calculated for the required time interval. All necessary measured and calculated values are graphically displayed.