TOPIC 4

SIZING THE PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM

The six step process of accurately sizing of the photovoltaic system are based on the user’s need’s, goals
and budget. This includes

1. Estimating the electric load

2. Sizing the specifying batteries
3. Sizing and specifying the array
4. Specifying a controller
5. Sizing and specifying converter meter
6. Sizing system wiring

Elective load estimation

Consider the load, volts and ampere usage information for each of the loads to be installed so that to
come up with total connected voltage or power required and average daily load (whether ac or dc). This
will help determining the average watt-hour per day.

Battery sizing

Divide the dc average daily load by the system voltage to arrive at the average ampere-hour per day
load. Select a particular battery to be used in the system. Divide the total required battery capacity by
the battery amp-hour capacity supplied by the manufacturer to determine the number of batteries in
parallel needed if the battery bank includes batteries in series configuration the required batteries in
series determined by dividing the direct the correct system voltage by battery voltage of the battery
chosen. Multiply batteries in series by batteries in parallel to obtain the total batteries required.

Array sizing

The average ampere-hours per day load obtained in battery sizing is divided by the number of peak sun
hours available per day

NB: monthly peak sun hours for locations around the world are available. The result figure is the array
peak amperes.

It contains seasoned peak sun hours for tilt angles, azimult and tracking options. World-wide maps
showing solar insolation for three tilt angles for the four seasons are also available.

Use specifications from the module selected to come up with array. Divide the array peak amps by peak
amps per module. The resulting figure is the modules required modules in parallel. To determine the
modules required in series, divide the dc system voltage by the normal module voltage. Multiply the
modules in series by the modules in parallel to determine the total number of modules required.

Controller specification

Multiply the module short circuit by modules in parallel. Then multiply this by safety factor of 1.25. The
resulting figure is the array short circuit amps that the controller must be handled under a short circuit
condition. Select a controller for the system. Find one with a controller array amps using the array short
circuit amps obtained and the manufacture’s specifications for the desired type of controller. Divide the
dc total connected load (watts) to calculate the maximum dc load amps the controller will be required to
handle.

Inverter

Divide the total connected load (watts) that will be used simultaneously by the dc system voltage to
calculate the maximum direct current amps continuously. Determine the maximum surge watts
required. Using these figures and the manufacture’s specifications, budget and other requirements, such
as a sine wave inverter for solid-state equipment.

System wiring

This involves choosing the most suitable type of wiring required for particular installation. The materials
required include cables, accessories, conductors, etc required for fixing and terminating cables taking
power to the various loads in the system.

NB alternating current and direct current wiring systems are not compartible and must be separated.

A photovoltaic ted electrical installation should meet the requirements of a normal electrical
installation.eg regulations.