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Solar PV: Simulation and Designing
An Internship
Report On
“Solar PV:
Simulation and
Author
Designing”
Saurabh Bhimrao Jagtap
(Government College Of Engineering, Karad)
Under The Guidance Of

Mr. Ashish Kumar
(Director, Vardhan Consulting Engineers)
Date of Submission
30th March 2020
VARDHAN HOUSE, Anand Bazar, Danapur

Cantt, Patna 801503, Bihar (INDIA).
Tel: +91 979 111 2715
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Preface and Acknowledgement
This report is written and submitted by Saurabh Jagtap, a student of third year electrical
engineering at Government College of Engineering, Karad.
For 2 months from 15th February 2020 till 5th April 2020, I did an internship at “Vardhan
Consulting Engineers”, an organization which provides internships, training and consultancy
services for students of core engineering and management studies.
I worked on project entitled “Solar PV: Simulation and Designing”. The main focus of the
project was on technical analysis, simulation and designing of a solar PV power plant for annual
energy production and losses analysis. Working on solar resources assessment and PVsyst
software was a part of the project. This topic suits my major in renewable energy sector and also
brought me to new and interesting area of solar energy technicalities in electricity network.
Through the smart tasks, I did not only gained a lot of knowledge but more importantly, I had a
chance to sharpen my skills in professional aspects. Not less important than technology that I
have learnt is the communication and documentation skills that I have been practiced through
interacting with mentors and writing smart task assignments.
I am very appreciated to Mr. Ashish Kumar, my mentor during the project. He gave me very
valuable instructions and helped me to solve all my doubts and issues, both technical as well as
non- technical. He gave me in time feedback on my assignments and helped to organize my
presentation of work so that I can represent my learning and achievements throughout the
internship in future.
Throughout the internship, I have also learnt many things about the professional culture whose
benefits are far beyond what I could learn in a normal project. In short, I would like to thank
“Vardhan” for introducing me to this great opportunity in which I have developed myself both
academically, professionally and socially.
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Executive Summary
The “Solar PV: Simulation and Designing” project has demonstrated that
Solar renewable energy harvesting is the demand of the century because of the huge energy
requirement of the world today.
Solar power is inexhaustible. In an energy deficient country like India, where power generation
is costly, solar energy is the best alternate means of power generation. India being a home to a
huge population witnesses high Incident Solar radiations throughout the year. Planning has been
made to produce at least 65 Gigawatts of high quality solar power by the year 2020.
The following graph represents India’s year-on-year targets to reach ambitious 2022 solar goal:
Figure 0.1 India's Year-on-Year solar goals

Source: eqmagpro.com
The main obstacle for the wide usage of solar Photovoltaic systems is their efficiency which is
very low (20-25% for single crystal 10-15% for polycrystalline and 3-5% for amorphous silicon
solar cells) and high cost of manufacturing.
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Solar Photovoltaic (PV) is a technology that converts sunlight (solar radiation) into direct
current electricity by using semiconductors. When the sun hits the semiconductor within the PV
cell, electrons are freed and form an electric current. This basic working principle is known as
photovoltaic effect
Solar PV technology is generally employed on a panel (hence solar panels). PV cells are
typically found connected to each other and mounted on a frame called a module. Multiple
modules can be wired together to form an array, which can be scaled up or down to produce the
amount of power needed. Other than solar cells, solar PV power plant also consists of devices
such as solar inverters, power optimizers, isolators, batteries, charge controllers, etc.
PVsyst is the most widely used solar simulation software for the energy yield estimation and for
optimal design of solar power plants. PVsyst makes use of the extended knowledge of PV
Technology, Meteorological irradiation resources data and PV system components. Thus PVsyst
will help in understanding the PV system components and thus help in optimizing the system
design.
The subsequent sections of this report provide more detailed information regarding the
comprehensive solar photovoltaic system program and analysis methods.
This report focuses on the Key takeaways as listed below
 In-depth knowledge of basics, working of solar PV power plant.
 Information about various components of a photovoltaic power plant such as photovoltaic

modules, inverters, charge controllers, batteries, structures, and so on.
 Photovoltaic system types, design philosophy, principles, examples and calculations.
 Information and methodologies of solar resource assessment site survey tools, weather
measurements, etc.
 PV Systems: Comprehensive learning of industry-standard software.
 Key issues, challenges, opportunities, and future scope in the domain of solar PV
This report concludes that how solar energy is the techno-economic feasible option specially for
a energy deficient country like India.
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Table of Contents
List of Figures ............................................................................................................................... vii
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................. ix
List of Abbreviations ...................................................................................................................... x
Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................1

1.1 Context ........................................................................................................................1
1.2 Organisation of Report ................................................................................................2
Chapter 2: Technical Descriptions ..............................................................................................3

2.1 Basic Terms and Concepts .........................................................................................3
2.1.1 Photovoltaic Effect..............................................................................................3
2.1.2 Photovoltaic Cells (Solar Cells) ..........................................................................4
2.2.3 Geometrical Astronomical Terminologies ..........................................................5
2.2.4 Solar Irradiation (Solar Potential) .......................................................................5
2.2.5 Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) ..........................................................8
2.2.6 Hybrid Systems ...................................................................................................8
2.2 Summary ....................................................................................................................8
Chapter 3: Process Flow & Solar Resource Assessment (SRA) ................................................9

3.1 How Does System Works ...........................................................................................9
3.1.1 Process of Electricity Generation.........................................................................9
3.1.2 Components of Solar PV Power Plant ...............................................................11
3.1.2.1 Photovoltaic Cell.....................................................................................11
3.1.2.2 Solar Inverter ..........................................................................................14
3.1.2.3 Power Optimizer .....................................................................................16
3.1.2.4 Solar Isolator (DC Switches) ..................................................................16
3.1.2.5 Batteries & Charge Controllers ...............................................................17
3.1.2.6 Solar Meters ............................................................................................19
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3.2 Solar Resource Assessment (SRA) ...........................................................................19

3.2.1 Methodology of SRA .........................................................................................20
3.3 Summary ...................................................................................................................20
Chapter 4: PVsyst & Applications of Solar PV.........................................................................21

4.1 Introduction to PVsyst ..............................................................................................21
4.1.1 About PVsyst ......................................................................................................21
4.1.1.1 Methodology to Use PVsyst ....................................................................24
4.1.2 Sample Simulation ..............................................................................................26
4.2 Applications of Solar PV ..........................................................................................33
4.2.1 Simple (Stand Alone) PV System ......................................................................33
4.2.2 PV with Battery Storage ....................................................................................33
4.2.3 PV with Back-Up Generator ..............................................................................33
4.2.4 PV Connected to Local Utility...........................................................................33
4.2.5 Utility-Scale Power Production .........................................................................34
4.3 Summary ...................................................................................................................34
Chapter 5: Key Issues, Challenges & Opportunities ................................................................35

5.1 Key Challenges in the Growth & Development of PV in India ................................35
5.2 Opportunities for Solar PV in India ...........................................................................36
5.2.1 SWOT Analysis for Solar PV in India ...............................................................37
Chapter 6: Conclusion & Future Scope .....................................................................................38

References/Bibliography .............................................................................................................39
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List of Figures
Figure 2.1-Photovoltaic Effect .......................................................................................................3
Figure 2.2-Types of Photovoltaic Effect ........................................................................................4
Figure 2.3-Solar Cell Characteristic Angles ..................................................................................5
Figure 2.4-Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) Map of India .......................................................6
Figure 2.5a-Solar Radiation Spectrum ...........................................................................................7
Figure 2.5b-Peak Sun Hour Spectrum ...........................................................................................7
Figure 3.1-Process Flow of Solar PV Power Plant ........................................................................9
Figure 3.2-Block Diagram of Solar PV power Generation...........................................................11
Figure 3.3-Schematic Working of Photovoltaic Cell ....................................................................12
Figure 3.4-Output IV Characteristics of Solar Cell ......................................................................12
Figure 3.5-Types of Photovoltaic Cells (Solar Cells) ...................................................................13
Figure 3.6-Internal View of Solar Inverter ...................................................................................14
Figure 3.7-Types of Grid Tied Solar Inverter ...............................................................................15
Figure 3.8-Power Optimizer .........................................................................................................16
Figure 3.9-Solar Isolator (DC Switch) ..........................................................................................17
Figure 3.10-Solar Battery Pack .....................................................................................................17
Figure 3.11-Solar Meters ..............................................................................................................19
Figure 3.12-Pyronometer Tool......................................................................................................20
Figure 4.1-PVsyst 6.86 Home Screen ...........................................................................................21
Figure 4.2-Preliminary Design Window of PVsyst Software .......................................................22
Figure 4.3-Project Design Window of PVsyst Software ..............................................................22
Figure 4.4-Databases Window of PVsyst Software ......................................................................23
Figure 4.5-Tools Window of PVsyst Software .............................................................................23
Figure 4.6-Project Simulation Process Flowchart .........................................................................25
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Figure 4.7-Monthly Meteo Data of Defined Location ...................................................................26

Figure 4.8-System Parameters (page no. 1) ...................................................................................27
Figure 4.9-Main Results (page no. 2) ............................................................................................28
Figure 4.10-Special Graphs (page no. 3) .......................................................................................29
Figure 4.11-Losses Diagram (page no. 4) ......................................................................................30
Figure 5.1 SWOT Analysis of Indian Solar PV .............................................................................37
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List of Tables
Table 1.1 - Installed grid interactive renewable power capacity .....................................................1

Table 3.1 Comparison of Grid Tied Solar Inverters ......................................................................15
Table 4.1 100KW Installation Quotation (with batteries) .............................................................31
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List of Abbreviations
AC Alternating Current
AEP Annual Energy Production
ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange
BoS Balance of System
CGIS Copper Gallium Indium Selenide
CPS Concentrated Power Supply
CUF Capacity utilization factor
DC Direct Current
DHI Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance
DiffHor Horizontal Diffuse Irradiation
DNI Direct Normal Irradiance
DoD Depth of Discharge
Earray Effective energy at the output of the array
E_Grid Energy injected in the grid
FF Form Factor
GHI Global Horizontal Irradiance
GNI Global Normal Irradiance
GlobEff Effective Global, corresponding for IAM and shading
GlobHor Global Horizontal Irradiation
GlobInc Global Incident in Coll. Plane
IAM Incidence Angle Modifier
LED Light Emitting Diode
LID Light Induced Degradation
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MNRE Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

MPPT Maximum Power Point Tracking
PR Performance Ratio
PSH Peak Sun Hour
PVT Photovoltaic Thermal
SRA Solar Resource Assessment
SRRA Solar Radiation Resource Assessment
T_amb Ambient Temperature
TF Transportation Factor
TMY Typical Meteorological Year
TSI Total Solar Irradiance
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 Context
Electricity is the versatile form of energy which can be transformed to other forms easily. But it
is becoming expensive with each passing day. Its price will increase heavily as the fossil fuel
reserve is decreasing. Dependence on fossil fuel for energy is the main reason for environmental
pollution. Renewable energy resources are suitable for this context as most of them are
environment friendly.
India is one of the countries with the largest production of energy from renewable sources. As of
2019, 35% of India's installed electricity generation capacity is from renewable sources. The
following table illustrates the current scenario of electricity generation in India by means of
renewable energy sources
Table 2.1 Installed grid interactive renewable power capacity (excluding large hydropower) as of 30 June 2019
Source: Wikipedia
Sources Installed capacity (MW) Target by 2020

(MW)
Hydropower 4,604 10,000
Solar power 29,549 100,000
Wind power 36,368 60,000
Biomass 9,806 10,000
Waste to Energy 138 5,000
Total 80,467 185,000
India is densely populated and has high solar insolation, an ideal combination for using solar
power in India. Announced in November 2009, the Government of India proposed to launch
its Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission under the National Action Plan on Climate Change.
The Mission aims to achieve grid parity (electricity delivered at the same cost and quality as that
delivered on the grid) by 2022. The National Solar Mission is also promoted and known by its
more colloquial name of "Solar India".
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Solar PV panels provide a very good alternative. The greatest advantage of solar power is its
versatile availability and abundance all over the earth. But solar energy is scattered in nature
which means more area is required for installation. As the area increases, installation cost also
increases. Majority (58%) of India receives solar radiations of 5 watts or above per sq meter per
day. Solar energy usage can reduce our dependence on fossil fuel and reduce carbon emission. It
can turn our energy consuming home to producing one.
The solar PV installed can be on grid or off grid depending on daily energy consumption. There
are a lot of people keen in buying solar panels in India. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
(MNRE), Government of India is also promoting solar PV systems under the Jawaharlal Nehru
National Solar Mission in the country. They also provide subsidy (30% - 40%) for buying solar
panels under this scheme. But most of people don't have proper knowledge on economic aspect
and efficient side of PV solar panel. The efficiency of solar panel varies from 12 % to 20% and
area of solar panel needed depends on it. The output from PV panel depends on solar radiation
received and the location of panel. The capacity utilization factor (CUF) determines the
performance of PV Panel.
Solar power in India is a fast developing industry. The country's solar installed capacity reached
34.404 GW as of 29 February 2020. India has the lowest capital cost per MW globally to install
solar power plants.
1.2 Organisation of this report

The report is consists of six main chapters including this introduction. They are as follows,
Chapter 2 will introduce a technical description about the related concepts and terminologies
Chapter 3 is about process flow of solar PV power plant, introduction to electrical machines,
components required for power plant and solar resource assessment,
Chapter 4 deals with introduction to PVsyst software and descriptions of the terminologies in
auto generated Pvsyst report. This chapter also explains the current applications of solar PV
power plant.
Chapter 5 gives the review of key issues and challenges for off-grid solar PV power plants
Chapter 6 details the conclusion and future scope.
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Chapter 2
Technical Descriptions
This chapter consists of a description about photovoltaic effect, photovoltaic cells (solar cells),
irradiation as well as hybrid systems.
This chapter is organized as follows: Section 2.1.1 describes the theory of photovoltaic effect.
Section 2.1.2 explains the concept of photovoltaic cells (solar cells).
Section 2.1.3 elaborates about the solar irradiation (solar potential) and peak sun hour (PSH).
Section 2.1.4 informs about the concept of maximum power point tracking (MPPT)
Section 2.1.5 describes about the off grid and hybrid systems.
Section 2.2 summarizes the technical descriptions provided in this chapter.
2.1 Basic Terms and Concepts

2.1.1 Photovoltaic Effect
Thankfully, we now live in the age when solar energy is used efficiently, sustainably, and
peacefully. The key technology that allows us to use the sun’s energy is solar photovoltaics.
Solar photovoltaics is used to convert sunlight into electricity. Solar photovoltaic cells are made
of semiconductor materials (for example, silicon). When exposed to sunlight, the semiconducting
material causes electrons in the materials’ atoms to be knocked loose. The electrons that are
knocked loose then flow through the material to produce an electric current known as a direct
current (DC).
Figure 3.1 Photo Effect
Source: Medium.com
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In short, the light separates electrons from atoms to create an electric current. The above picture
illustrates the process schematically. Red wavy arrows on the picture represent sunlight, and
encircled minuses stand for electrons — negatively charged particles. Red arrows symbolize the
direct electric current.
2.1.2 Photovoltaic Cells (Solar Cell)

Solar Cell or Photovoltaic (PV) cell is a device that is made up of semiconductor materials such
as silicon, gallium arsenide and cadmium telluride, etc. that converts sunlight directly into
electricity. When solar cells absorb sunlight, free electrons and holes are created at
positive/negative junctions. If the positive and negative junctions of solar cell are connected to
DC electrical equipment, current is delivered to operate the electrical equipment.
Major cell types that classified by its manufacturing technology and the semiconductor are as
shown in the figure below,
Figure 2.2 Types of Photovoltaic Cells

Source: Leonics.com
The most semiconductor material currently use for solar cell production is silicon, which has
some advantages. The commonly solar cell is configured as a large-area p-n junction made from
silicon.
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2.1.3 Geometrical and Astronomical Terminologies

The orientation of the solar collector or the photovoltaic array with respect to the position of the
Sun is a major determinant in the efficiency of the solar power system.
o Angle of Incidence: The geometric angle at which solar radiations hits the surface of
photovoltaic cell measured with respect to normal
o Solar Altitude Angle: The solar altitude angle, αs, is the angle between the horizontal
and the line to the sun
o Solar Azimuth Angle: The solar azimuth angle is the azimuth angle of the sun. It is most
often defined as the angle from due north in a clockwise direction.
Figure 2.3 Solar Cell Characteristic Angles

Source: Sciencedirect.com
2.1.4 Irradiation (Solar Potential)

Solar irradiance is the power per unit area (watt per square meter, W/m2), received from
the Sun in the form of electromagnetic radiation as reported in the wavelength range of the
measuring instrument This integrated solar irradiance is called solar irradiation, solar
exposure, or solar insolation. The SI unit of irradiance is watt per square meter (W/m2, which
may also be written Wm−2). An alternative unit of measure is the Langley (1 thermochemical
calorie per square centimeter or 41,840 J/m2) per unit time.
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There are several measured types of solar irradiance. As follows:

o Total Solar Irradiance (TSI) is a measure of the solar power over all wavelengths per
unit area incident on the Earth's upper atmosphere. It is measured perpendicular to the
incoming sunlight.
o Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) is measured at the surface of the Earth at a given
location with a surface element perpendicular to the Sun
o Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance (DHI) is the radiation at the Earth's surface from light
scattered by the atmosphere.
o Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) is the total irradiance from the sun on a horizontal
surface on Earth.
o Global Normal Irradiance (GNI) is the total irradiance from the sun at the surface of
Earth at a given location with a surface element perpendicular to the Sun.
The average intensity of solar radiation received on India is 200 MW/km square (megawatt per
kilometre square). With a geographical area of 3.287 million km square, this amounts to 657.4
million MW. The following image represents the GHI of the India.
Figure 2.4 GHI Map of India

Source: World Bank Group
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The graph below shows the spectrum of the solar energy impinging on a plane, directly facing
the sun, outside the Earth's atmosphere at the Earth's mean distance from the Sun. The area under
the curve represents the total energy in the spectrum. Known as the "Solar Constant" G0, it is
equal to 1367 Watts per square meter (W/m2)
Figure 2.5a Solar Radiation

Spectrum
Source: electropedia.com
o Peak Sun Hour (PSH)

It is the average solar radiation a certain location receives throughout the day. Its unit is kWh/m2
per day.
A PSH is defined as an hour in the day when the intensity of the sunlight reaches an average of
1000 watts/meter².
For example, a location gets 5 PSH (kWh/m²), means the area gets 5 hours of solar power when
the average intensity of sunlight is 1000 watts/meter².
The graph shown below explains concept of PSH
Figure 2.5b Peak Sun Hour

Spectrum
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2.1.5 Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
It is algorithm that included in charge controllers used for extracting maximum available power
from PV module under certain conditions. The voltage at which PV module can produce
maximum power is called maximum power point (or peak power voltage). Maximum power
varies with solar radiation, ambient temperature and solar cell temperature.
MPPT is most effective under these conditions:
o o Cold weather, cloudy or hazy days: Normally, PV module works better at cold
temperatures and MPPT is utilized to extract maximum power available from them.
o When battery is deeply discharged: MPPT can extract more current and charge the
battery if the state of charge in the battery is lowers
2.1.6 Hybrid Systems

A hybrid system combines solar PV with other forms of generation such as diesel, wind
and biogas. The combined form of generation may enable the system to modulate power output
as a function of demand or at least reduce the fluctuating nature of solar power and the
consumption of non-renewable fuel.
o Photovoltaic thermal hybrid solar collector (PVT)

Also known as hybrid PV/T, convert solar radiation into thermal and electrical energy.
Such a system combines a solar (PV) module with a solar thermal collector in a
complementary way.
o Concentrated photovoltaics and thermal (CPVT)
A concentrated photovoltaic thermal hybrid system is similar to a PVT system. It
uses concentrated photovoltaics (CPV) instead of conventional PV technology, and
combines it with a solar thermal collector.
o PV diesel system
It combines a photovoltaic system with a diesel generator. Combinations with other
renewables are possible and include wind turbines.
2.2 Summary
This chapter provided us the overall picture of basic working principle of a solar PV power plant
which is known as “Photovoltaic Effect”. This theory is applied to generate electricity from solar
radiations. The background information helped us to understand different terminologies such as
“Solar Irradiance” and “Hybrid Electric System”
In short, the key idea of solar PV power plant is “Photovoltaic Effect” and its dependence on
solar irradiance of respective site.
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Chapter 3
Process Flow & SRA
A photovoltaic system converts the sun's radiation, in the form of light, into usable electricity. It
comprises the solar array and the balance of system components (BOS). This chapter details
about process flow of electricity generation and several types of components used in it.
The following chapter organized as follows: Section 3.1 elaborates the process flow of power
generation.
Section 3.1.2 details about the grid components used in the power generation process.
Section 3.2 explains the process of solar resource assessment.
Section 3.3 summarize the outline of the overall chapter contents.
3.1 How Does System Works?
3.1.1 Process of Electricity Generation

The main steps for how solar PV power plant works are listed below:
1. Photovoltaic cells absorb the sun’s energy and convert it to DC electricity

2. The solar inverter converts DC electricity from your solar modules to AC electricity,
which is used by most home appliances
3. Electricity flows through your home, powering electronic devices
4. Excess electricity produced by solar panels is fed to the electric grid.
Figure 3.1 Process Flow of Solar PV Power Plant

Source: roopsolar.in
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Step: 1 The photovoltaic effect

The science of generating electricity with solar panels boils down to the photovoltaic effect. It
was first discovered in 1839 by Edmond Becquerel and can be generally thought of as a
characteristic of certain materials (known as semiconductors) that allows them to generate an
electric current when exposed to sunlight.
The photovoltaic process works through the following simplified steps:
1. The silicon photovoltaic solar cell absorbs solar radiation

2. When the sun’s rays interact with the silicon cell, electrons begin to move, creating a
flow of electric current
Step: 2 DC to AC conversion
The output of photovoltaic cells (solar cells) is in DC energy form so it is necessary to convert it
into AC energy, which is done by means of a single component popularly known as solar
inverters.
A solar inverter takes the DC electricity from the solar array and uses that to create AC
electricity. Inverters are like the brains of the system. Along with inverting DC to AC power,
they also provide ground fault protection and system stats, including voltage and current on AC
and DC circuits, energy production and maximum power point tracking.
Step: 3 Electrical energy storage

Because no power is provided during the hours of darkness, the stand alone systems must
generate and store sufficient energy during the day to satisfy the peak daily load. The storage
should also be sufficient to cover several days when no sunlight is available. Batteries are
normally used as a buffer to provide the necessary storage to guarantee short term continuity of
supply by storing surplus energy during the day for use during the night and during periods of
overcast skies.
Step: 4 Excess energy production
A typical grid-tied PV system, during peak daylight hours, frequently produces more energy than
one customer needs, so that excess energy is fed back into the grid for use elsewhere. The
customer gets credit for the excess energy produced, and can use that credit to draw from the
conventional grid at night or on cloudy days. A net meter records the energy sent compared to
the energy received from the grid.
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The block diagram shown below represents the conclusive and detailed process flow of solar PV
power plant.
Figure 3.2 Block Diagram of Solar PV power Generation

Source: mpoweruk.com
3.1.2 Components of Solar PV Power Plant
3.1.2.1 Photovoltaic Cell (Solar Cell)

Photodiodes, also known as PV cells or solar cells, generate an electric current when light energy
of sufficient magnitude impinges on the semiconductor lattice near to a P-N junction. If
the photon energy in the light beam is less than the band gap, the energy is simply dissipated as
heat and no electrons are released into the conduction band and no current flows.
If however the energy level of the photons is equal to, or higher than, the band gap of the
semiconductor material, it will cause the covalent bonds in the semiconductor to be broken as
electrons jump the band gap into the conduction band. Both the electron and the vacant site left
behind by the electron in the valence band (the hole) then act as free charge carriers and
contribute to the possible current.
Once a photon has caused the release of an electron, any photon energy it had in excess of the
band gap energy will be dissipated in the form of heat. Photons will thus pass through the crystal
lattice until they are absorbed as heat or until they give up their energy by causing the generation
of electron hole pairs and the release of an electron across the band gap.
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In the absence of an electrical field both the electrons and holes move about until they find each
other and recombine. An important requirement for the functioning of the photovoltaic cell is the
existence of an internal electrical field that will drive the photo-excited charge carriers into the
external circuit before they recombine.
Figure 3.3 Schematic Working of Photovoltaic Cell

Source: Circuitglobe.com
The graph below shows that with constant irradiance the output voltage of a cell or an array of
cells falls as it is called upon to deliver more current.
Figure 3.4 Output IV Characteristics of Solar Cell

Maximum power delivery occurs the voltage has dropped to about 80% of open circuit voltage.
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The Fill Factor (FF) is defined as the ratio between the power at the maximum power point and
the product of the open circuit voltage and short circuit current. It is typically better than 75% for
good quality solar cells.
Types of Photovoltaic Cells:
Several types of solar cells have been developed with the aims of reducing costs and improving
efficiencies
o Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells

Crystalline silicon is the leading solar cell material, though still relatively expensive.
Monocrystalline cells are cut from single crystals of high purity electronics grade silicon. These
cells are about 25% efficiency at best.
o Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells

Amorphous material appears like a solid but has no regular crystal lattice structure. Glass is an
example of such materials. The presence of controlled quantities of certain "impurity" elements
such as hydrogen and the random crystal lattice formation actually enhance the otherwise very
low conversion efficiency. Typical cell efficiencies range from 5% to 10%.
o Thin Film Silicon Solar Cells

Thin film cells are made by depositing the active photovoltaic material, such as amorphous
silicon or other semiconductor onto a glass or other substrate together with the necessary current
collecting contacts. Efficiencies of 11% to 14% have been achieved with this construction. PV
systems on flexible polymer substrates have also been made using Copper Indium Gallium
Selenide (CIGS) active material with efficiencies of 10%
o Organic PV Solar Cells

Currently, conversion efficiencies are rather low at around 12% but this is expected to improve.
o Multi Layer (Tandem) Solar Cells

Better conversion efficiencies are possible by using multiple layers of differing semiconductor
materials, optimized for different wavelengths, in a single device. This can raise the theoretical
efficiency limit, currently about 30% for a single junction device, to about 45% for a three
junction cell. Efficiencies of over 33% have already been achieved in practical devices
Figure 3.5 Types of Photovoltaic Cells (Solar Cells)

Source: cleanenergyreviews.info
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3.1.2.2 Solar Inverter (PV Inverter)

A solar inverter or PV inverter, is a type of electrical converter which converts the variable direct
current (DC) output of a photovoltaic (PV) solar panel into a utility frequency alternating
current (AC) that can be fed into a commercial electrical grid or used by a local, off-
grid electrical network.
It is a critical balance of system (BOS)–component in a photovoltaic system, allowing the use of
ordinary AC-powered equipment. Solar power inverters have special functions adapted for use
with photovoltaic arrays, including maximum power point tracking and anti-islanding protection.
The internal view of the solar inverter is as represented below:
Figure 3.6 Internal View of Solar Inverter
Source: solarelectricsupply.com
The broad classification of solar inverter is listed below:

o Stand-alone inverters: used in isolated systems where the inverter draws its DC energy
from batteries charged by photovoltaic arrays. Normally these do not interface in any way
with the utility grid, and as such, are not required to have anti-islanding protection.
o Grid-tie inverters: which match phase with a utility-supplied sine wave. Grid-tie inverters
are designed to shut down automatically upon loss of utility supply, for safety reasons.
o Battery backup inverters: They special inverters which are designed to draw energy from
a battery, manage the battery charge via an onboard charger, and export excess energy to
the utility grid.
14 | P a g e
There are 3 main different types of grid tied solar inverters:
1) Central Inverter: A central inverter is a high capacity inverter designed for use with large
commercial or utility (power station) sized solar systems. It is like large string inverter designed to
handle more power and offer efficiencies / economies of scale.
2) Micro Inverter: A micro-inverter converts power at the solar panel from DC electricity to 240V
AC electricity and is attached to each panel in a solar system. Micro-inverters best suit shaded roofs
as shade affecting one panel will not affect any other unshaded panels. They are also useful on roofs
that are too small to enable a string of panels to be installed.
3) String Inverter: A string inverter is connected to a series or “string” of solar panels and converts
the power from Direct Current (DC) in to Alternate Current (AC) electricity, for the solar system as a
whole.
Figure 3.7 Types of Grid Tied Solar Inverter
Source: lgenergy.com
Central Inverter Microgrid Inverter String Inverter
Table 3.1 Comparison of Grid Tied Solar Inverters

Source: Wikipedia.com
Type Power Efficiency Market

share
Central inverter above 100 kWp 98.5% 48%
Micro-inverter module power range 90–95% 1.5%
String inverter up to 100 kWp 98% 50%
15 | P a g e
3.1.2.3 Power Optimizer

A power optimizer is a DC to DC converter technology developed to maximize the energy
harvest from solar photovoltaic systems. They do this by individually tuning the performance of
the panel through maximum power point tracking, and optionally tuning the output to match the
performance of the string inverter.
Power optimizers are especially useful when the performance of the power generating
components in a distributed system will vary widely, such as due to differences in equipment,
shading of light or wind, or being installed facing different directions or widely separated
locations.
The following figure shows commercially available power optimizer and how it is implemented
in the power plant.
Figure 3.8 Power Optimizer
Source: solar-nu-webshop.in
3.1.2.4 Solar Isolators (DC Isolators)

These are used between high voltage DC PV arrays and grid-connect inverters. They are located
adjacent to the inverter and are required to provide a means of manually isolating the entire PV
array during system installation or any subsequent maintenance.
The switch must be rated for system voltage (1.15 x string open circuit voltage Voc) and current
(1.25 x string short circuit current Isc).
16 | P a g e
Figure 3.9 Solar Isolator (DC Switch)

Source: aluzon.com
Above image shows the schematic commercially available solar isolators along with its port
connections.
3.1.2.5 Solar Batteries & Charge Controllers

Batteries store and produce energy as needed. In PV systems, they capture surplus energy
generated by our PV system to allow user to store energy for use later in the day. Like
technologies such as fuel cells, a battery converts chemical energy to electrical energy.
Rechargeable batteries also convert electrical energy into chemical energy
Figure 3.10 Solar Battery Pack
Source: perdamenadvanceenergy.net
17 | P a g e
Batteries used in home energy storage typically are made with one of three chemical
compositions: lead acid, lithium ion, and saltwater.
o Lead acid
Lead acid batteries are a tested technology that has been used in off-grid energy systems for
decades. While they have a relatively short life and lower Depth of Discharge (DoD) than
other battery types, they are also one of the least expensive options currently on the market in
the home energy storage sector.
o Lithium ion
Lithium ion batteries are lighter and more compact than lead acid batteries. They also have a
higher DoD and longer lifespan when compared to lead acid batteries. However, lithium ion
batteries are more expensive than their lead acid counterparts.
o Saltwater
A newcomer in the home energy storage industry is the saltwater battery. Unlike other home
energy storage options, saltwater batteries don’t contain heavy metals, relying instead on
saltwater electrolytes. While batteries that use heavy metals, including lead acid and lithium
ion batteries, need to be disposed of with special processes, a saltwater battery can be easily
recycled.
 Charge Controllers:
Charge controller ensures is used to charge batteries, it ensures that the battery is not over-
charged or over-discharged. It stops receiving from the solar panel when the battery is fully
charged and switches off every DC load connected to it when the battery is discharged to the
minimum level.
These charge controllers regulate the charging of batteries because they are programmed. The
quality of these programs determines the lifespan of batteries. This is the reason only quality
charge controllers should be used, because batteries are the most expensive part of any solar
system installation.
DC loads are taken directly from the charge controller. The procedure for selecting Charge
controller is by determining the operating voltage of the PV array and the current, i.e. the
charge controller must be sized to handle maximum current and voltage produced by the solar
PV array.
18 | P a g e
3.1.2.6 Solar Meter

Solar meters collect PV yield production and local energy consumption to monitor and analyze
PV plant performance. Solar meters often come with a monitoring function to alert plant owners
of issues with PV plant performance, letting them quickly resolve issues and maximize return on
investment.
Commercially available solar meters are two way meter system which measures both imported
as well as exported energy.
Figure 3.11 Solar Meters
Source: itron.com
3.2 Solar Resource Assessment

Solar irradiance is the “fuel” of all solar energy systems. Determining the potential of solar
radiation at a given site is called “resource assessment”.
A simple definition of resource assessment would be, the systematic collection of site-specific
meteorological data for the purpose of accurately estimating a prospective solar farm’s annual
energy production
Solar Resource Assessment (SRA) refers to the analysis of a prospective solar energy production
site with the end goal being an accurate estimate of that facility’s annual energy production
(AEP).
Two main components of solar radiation are direct normal (or beam) radiation and diffuse
radiation. Solar photovoltaic panels convert both types of radiation into electricity. Solar thermal
systems, on the other hand, rely mostly on the direct normal radiation.
19 | P a g e
3.2.1 Methodology of SRA

There are various tools / models to assess solar resource, for simplicity they can be classified into
into 2 broad categories:
1) Ground mounted measuring instruments
2) Satellite derived data
o Ground Mounted Measuring Instruments

In the first method, i.e., Ground mounted measurements, instruments such as pyranometers or
pyrheiometers are used for measurement of solar irradiation and other meteorological data. In
India the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has setup 115 automatic solar and
meteorological measuring stations known as SRRA stations all over the country in Phase I and
II.
Figure 3.12 Pyronometer Tool

Source: kippzonen.com
o Satellite Derived Data

One of the source for satellite derived data is SolarGIS, which uses statistically aggregated solar
and temperature data stored in the database with a time step of 15/30 minutes. Solar radiation is
calculated from IODC satellite data covering a period from 1999 to 2011.
SolarGIS database has been independently identified as the most reliable irradiation database on
multiple occasions.
3.3 Summary
This chapter explained the actual process flow of solar PV power plant from photovoltaic effect
to net metering of the energy exported. Section 3.1.2 gives the further details about the important
components, machinery and tools used in the solar PV power plant. Section 3.1.3 provided the
explanation on solar resource assessment its importance two extensively used methodology such
as using pyronometer and solarGIS data.
20 | P a g e
Chapter 4
PVsyst & Applications of Solar PV
Chapter 4 describes about PVsyst software which is extensively used commercially for sizing,
designing, analysis of the energy production losses and modelling of solar PV power plant. The
later part of the chapter contains the current scenario in application area of solar PV power plant.
This chapter is organized as follows: Section 4.1.1 details what is PVsyst software and
methodology to use this software
Section 4.1.2 contains design, simulation and calculation yield for a 100 kW rooftop solar power
plant that will be installed in New Delhi. A design report which provides the information of solar
radiation, PV modules, Inverters yield calculation and losses.
Section 4.2 explains the current scenario in the application area of solar PV power plant.
Section 4.3 summarize the outline of whole chapter.
4.1 PVsyst
4.1.1 About PVsyst and Methodology to Use it
PVsyst V6.86 is a PC software package simulation tool which is extensively applied for the
study, sizing and data analysis of complete PV systems. It deals with grid-connected, stand-
alone, pumping and DC-grid (public transportation) PV systems, and includes extensive meteo
and PV systems components databases, as well as general solar energy tools. This software is
geared to the needs of architects, engineers, researchers. It is also very helpful for educational
training.
The following image shows the home screen of PVsyst software 6.86
Figure 4.1 PVsyst 6.86 Home Screen
Source: PVsyst.com
21 | P a g e
o Preliminary Design:
This is the pre-sizing step of a project. It's aim is to quickly define the general features of a
planned PV system.
In this mode the system yield evaluations are performed very quickly in monthly values, using
only a very few general system characteristics, without specifying specific system components.
A rough cost estimate of the system is also available.
Figure 4.2 Preliminary Design Window of PVsyst Software

Source: PVsyst.com
o Project Design:
This part aims to perform a thorough PV-system design and performance analysis using detailed
hourly simulations. These are organized in the framework of a Project, which essentially holds
the geographical situation and meteorological hourly data. Optimizations and parameter analysis
can be performed through different simulation runs, called variants.
Figure 4.3 Project Design Window of PVsyst Software
Source: PVsyst.com
22 | P a g e
o Databases:
In addition to the Meteo Database that is included in the software, PVsyst gives access to many
meteorological data sources available on the web and includes a tool to easily import the most
popular ones.
Figure 4.4 Databases Window of PVsyst Software

Source: PVsyst.com
o Tools:
This option gives access to the topics shown in the following image.
Figure 4.5 Tools Window of PVsyst Software
Source: PVsyst.com
23 | P a g e
4.1.1.1 Methodology to simulate system using PVsyst

Step 1] First click on "Location" button: you have to give a description of your presizing project
in order to identify it after saving. The presizing projects are simple files which don't allow for
several variants.
a) Choose a location in the database. You can obtain the location details, or even create or
import a new location from Meteonorm or US TMY (Typical Meteorological Year) data,
using the "open" button.
Step 2] Click on "Project Design" and the system type in the main window, the procedure is as follows
as:
a) First define the Project through the "Project/Variant" button. User can also fetch an
existing project through the "File" menu.
b) For one Project (including Geographic Location and Meteo data), user can construct
different system variants.
c) For each variant, define the plane orientation.
d) Define the System properties.
e) The program verifies the consistency of all parameters, and produces "Warnings" in
Orange (acceptable for simulation) or Red (preventing simulation) LED's.
f) When available (all parameters properly defined, that is only Green or Orange LED's),
press the "Simulation" button. Red buttons or warnings indicate bad definitions which
prevent the simulation.
g) When the simulation is completed, user will enter the "Results" dialog, and consult the
main results on the "Report" document.
h) After simulation, each variant may be saved for further comparisons. User is advised to
define a significant description for each variant, in order to easily retrieve them in the list
and to obtain a suited title in your final report.
i) In the "System" definition panel, user can modify the "Detailed losses" (soiling, IAM,
module temperature parameters, wiring resistance, module quality, mismatch,
unavailability, etc).
j) Eventually define a Horizon profile (far shadings)
k) Near shadings, that is partial shadings of near objects, which require a rather complex
CAO 3D construction of the PV-field environment.
l) Module Layout for a description of the PV modules in the system, for the detailed
calculation of the electrical shading losses.
The following flowchart explains the outline of simulation process:
24 | P a g e
Figure 4.6 Project Simulation Process Flowchart

Source: PVsyst.com
25 | P a g e
4.1.2 Sample Simulation

Problem Statement: Please design and calculate yield for a 100 kW rooftop solar power plant
that will be installed in New Delhi. Make a design report which provides the information of solar
radiation, PV modules, Inverters yield calculation and losses.
As per given problem statement, it is required to design a solar PV power plant to yield 100kW
which is to be installed at New Delhi.
Step1]First of all, it is necessary to import meteo data for the given location, to do so import
databases of given location using “latitude” and “longitude” co-ordinates of the location which
can be derived using googlemaps.com
The monthly irradiation data received from the software is as follows:
Figure 4.7 Monthly Meteo Data of Defined Location
Source: PVsyst.com
26 | P a g e
Step 2] After importing the monthly meteo data of the location, follow the steps as mentioned in the
flowchart of project design [Figure 4.6 Project Simulation Process Flowchart, page no. 33]
Step 3] After simulating the imported data, PVsyst software generates a four page report
containing:
1) Simulation Parameters.
2) Main Result.
3) Special Graph.
4) Losses Diagram.
As follows:
Figure 4.8 System Parameters (page no. 1)
Source: PVsyst.com
27 | P a g e
Figure 4.9 Main Results (page no. 2)

Source: PVsyst.com
28 | P a g e
Figure 4.10 Special Graphs (page no. 3)

Source: PVsyst.com
29 | P a g e
Figure 4.11 Losses Diagram (page no. 4)

Source: PVsyst.com
30 | P a g e
The above report provides all sort of requirements including type and number of photovoltaic
cells, inverters, number of modules to be connected in series and parallel, geographical area
needed etc.
The following quotation explains the lump sump amount for installing 100KW solar PV power
plant with batteries in India:
Table 4.1 100KW Installation Quotation (with batteries)
Components Cost per Unit Quantity Total Cost

(in RS.) (in RS.)
Solar Panels, 410W 22/W /- 252 554400/-
@STC
Mounting Structure 800/KW /- 100 80000/-
Inverter 40000/KW /- 20 800000/-
Cables 2000/KW /- 100 200000/-
Battery 12000/- 50 600000/-
Combiner Box 10000/- 20 200000/-
Main Junction Box 8000/- 10 80000/-
Fuses and As Per Requirement 300000/-
Disconnectors
Protection Switches 500/- 37 185000/-
Energy monitoring 4000/- 2 8000/-
meter
Remote control and 200000/- 1 200000/-
monitoring system
CGST 2.5% 80185/-
SGST 2.5% 80185/-
Transport and 10% 320740/-
Installation
Miscellaneous 6% 192444/-
Project management, 10% 320740/-
Design and
Engineering
Total 4201694/-
31 | P a g e
Certain important formulae used while designing system and modeling its size is as follows:
o Performance Ratio (Quality Factor):
o System Size:
o Number of Solar Panels Required:
4.2 Applications
Today, solar-generated electricity serves people living in the most isolated spots on earth as well
as in the centre of our biggest cities. First used in the space program, photovoltaic (PV) systems
are now both generating electricity to pump water, light up the night, activate switches, charge
batteries, supply the electricutility grid, and more.
PV applications are grouped into the following categories:
• Simple or "Stand Alone" PV Systems.

• PV with Battery Storage.
• PV with Backup Generator Power.
• PV Connected to the Local Utility.
• Utility-Scale Power Production.
32 | P a g e
4.2.1 Simple (Stand Alone) PV system:

This electricity can be used to power water pumps for irrigation and drinking wells, and
ventilation fans for air cooling. For this reason, the most simple PV systems use the dc electricity
as soon as it is generated to run water pumps or fans.
The energy is produced where and when it is needed, so complex wiring, storage, and control
systems are unnecessary. Small systems, under 500 watts (W), weigh less than 68 kilograms,
making them easy to transport and install. Most installations and, although pumps and fans
require regular maintenance, the PV modules require only an occasional inspection and cleaning.
4.2.2 PV with Battery Storage:

PV systems with battery storage are being used all over the world to power lights, sensors,
recording equipment, switches, appliances, telephones, televisions, and even power tools.PV
systems with batteries can be designed to power dc or ac equipment.
People who want to run conventional ac equipment add a power conditioning device called an
"inverter" between the batteries and the load. Although a small amount of energy is lost in
converting dc to ac, an inverter makes PV-generated electricity behave like utility power to
operate everyday ac appliances, lights, and even computers.
4.2.3 PV with Backup Generator Power:

When power must always be available or when larger amounts of electricity than a PV system
alone can supply are occasionally needed, an electric generator can work effectively with a PV
system to supply the load.
During the daytime, the PV modules quietly supply daytime energy needs and charge batteries.
If the batteries run low, the engine generator runs at full power—its most cost- and fuel-efficient
mode of operation—until they are charged. And, in some systems, the generator makes up the
difference when electrical demand exceeds the combined output of the PV modules and the
batteries.
4.2.4 PV Connected to The Local Utility:

The owner of a grid-connected PV system cannot only buy, but can also sell, electricity each
month. This is because electricity generated by the PV system can be used on site or fed through
a meter into the utility grid.
When a home or business requires more electricity than the PV array is generating, the need is
automatically met by power from the utility grid. When the home or business requires less
electricity than the PV array is generating, the excess is fed (or sold) back to the utility.
33 | P a g e
4.2.5 Utility-Scale Power Production:

Large-scale photovoltaic power plants, consisting of many PV arrays installed together, can
prove useful to utilities. Utilities can build PV plants much more quickly than they can build
conventional power plants because the arrays themselves are easy to install and connect together
electrically.
Utilities can locate PV plants where they are most needed in the grid because siting PV arrays is
much easier than siting a conventional power plant. And, unlike conventional power plants, PV
plants can be expanded incrementally as demand increases. Finally, PV power plants consume
no fuel and produce no air or water pollution while they silently generate electricity
4.3 Summary
This chapter is the core of report which introduces a important software in the field of solar PV
and methodology to access the software commercially. The later part of the chapter explains
applications and how it works of solar PV power plant including stand alone systems, grid
connected systems, with battery connected, with generated connected systems.
34 | P a g e
Chapter 5
Key Issues, Challenges & Opportunities
5.1 Key Challenges in the Growth and Development of PV in India

o Cost and T&D Losses:
1) Solar PV is some years away from being able to compete on the same scale as other energy
generation technologies.
2) The government is supporting R&D activities by establishing research centers and
funding such initiatives. The government has tied up with world-renowned universities to bring
down the installation cost of solar power sources and is focusing on upgradation of substations
and T&D lines to reduce T&D losses.
o Finance:
1) Funding of initiatives like National Solar Mission is a constraint given India’s inadequate
financing capabilities. The Finance Ministry has explicitly raised concerns about funding an
ambitious scheme like NSM.
2) The need for a better financing infrastructure, models and arrangements to spur the PV
industry and consumption of PV products.
o Land availability:
1) Per capita land availability is very low in India, and land is a scarce resource. Dedication of
land area near substations for exclusive installation of solar cells might have to compete with
other necessities that require land.
o Research and Development:

1) The need for focused, collaborative and goals driven R&D to help India attain technology
leadership in PV.
2) The lack of closer industry-government cooperation for the technology to achieve scale.
o Intra-industry cooperation:
1)The need for intra-industry cooperation in expanding the PV supply chain, in technical
information sharing through conferences and workshops, in collaborating with BOS (balance of
systems) manufacturers.
35 | P a g e
o Economic Degradation:
1) Manufacturers are mostly focused on export markets that buy Solar PV cells and modules at
higher prices thereby increasing their profits.
2) Many new suppliers have tie-ups with foreign players outside India thereby prioritizing export
demand. This could result in reduced supplies for the fast-growing local market.
o Consumer Awareness:
1) The need to build consumer awareness about the technology, its economics and right usage.
2) Complexity of subsidy structure & involvement of too many agencies like MNRE, IREDA,
SNA, electricity board and electricity regulatory commission makes the development of solar PV
projects difficult.
3) Land allotment & PPA signing is a long procedure under the Generation Based Incentive
scheme.
5.2 Opportunities for Solar PV in India

Core opportunities for specific R&D activities are presented, organized by the energy sectors
represented in the technical chapters of this report are as follows:
-Enabling modernization of electric power systems.
-Advancing clean electric power technologies.
-Increasing efficiency of building systems and technologies.
-Innovating clean energy technologies in advanced manufacturing.
-Advancing clean transportation and vehicle systems and technologies.
36 | P a g e
5.2.1 SWOT analysis for Indian Solar PV:

Figure 5.1 SWOT Analysis of Indian Solar PV
Strength Weakness
1) Growing Industry. 1) High Initial Cost so

2) Sufficient Solar Potential. Dependency on External
3) Low Maintenance Cost. Incentives.
4) Availability of Government 2) The Distributed Nature of
Incentives. Solar Energy Makes It
Difficult to Relay on Solar PV
for Base Load.
Opportunities Threats
1) High Innovation in 1) Off-Peak Season Reduces
Technology. Cash Flow
2) Government’s Attractive 2) Finding Skilled Workforce
Policies. Could be a Problem.
3) Disruptive Business Specially 3) Risk of Obsolescence
With Reduction of Cost.
37 | P a g e
Chapter 6
Conclusion & Future Scope
Solar power is an extremely great source of directly useable energy and ultimately creates other
energy resources such as wind, hydropower and wave energy. It has been highlighted that there
is a vast resource available and PV technology is one of the most feasible renewable energy’s for
electricity generation within the urban environment.
The energy of light shifts electrons in some semiconducting materials. This photovoltaic effect is
capable of large-scale electricity generation. However, the present low efficiency of solar PV
cells demands very large areas to supply electricity demands. The simulation tools such as
PVsyst software helps to analyze the data of particular location and simulate the most feasible
system option to be installed.
Direct use of solar energy is the only renewable means capable of ultimately supplanting current
global energy supply from non-renewable sources, but at the expense of a land area of at least
half a million km2.Successful implementation of PV cells on building facades or roofs will
greatly reduce the need for additional land for electricity generation from new generation
stations.
The Government is committed to expanding its supporting programs for renewable including
research, development, and financial incentives. The understanding and potential of PV is
improving, but further Research and Development is required to capture cost-reductions. It is
important that strong partnerships are established between industry and government.
There is a room for improvement within the scope of solar PV power plant assets, Future work
can define more use cases for different purposes, such as implementation of AI in solar PV
power plant, grid stabilization, alternative to lithium ion batteries, grid islanding, floating solar
farm, solar roofs, etc.
The next step is to investigate how we can reshape solar spectrum to turn light into electricity,
transmit solar power wirelessly from space, etc. and different applications of solar energy in
different domains.
38 | P a g e
Reference/Bibliography
[1] Angèle Reinders, Pierre Verlinden, Wilfried van Sark, Alexandre Freundlich [2016],
“Photovoltaic Solar Energy: From Fundamentals to Applications”
[2] Suneel Deambi [2015], “From Sunlight to Electricity : A practical handbook on solar
photovoltaic applications (Third Edition)”
[3] Fthenakis V.M. and Kim H.C. [2011], “Photovoltaics: Life-cycle analyses, Solar Energy”
[4] Palz, Wolfgang [2013], “Solar Power for the World: What You Wanted to Know about
Photovoltaics”
[5] Andre Mermoud, Bruno Wittmer [2014], “PVsyst’s User Manual”
[6] Bharat Raj Singh, Onkar Singh [2016], “Future Scope of Solar Energy in India”
[7] http://www.indiaenergyportal.org/subthemes_link.php?themeid=1&text=solar
[8] https://www.degruyter.com/view/journals/revce/34/4/article-p503.xml
[9] http://www.esru.strath.ac.uk/EandE/Web_sites/01-02/RE_info/photovoltaics.htm
[10] https://www.pvsyst.com/help/project_design.htm
[11]
http://re.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/files/file/A%20Review%20of%20Solar%20Energy.pdf
[12] https://energypedia.info/wiki/Resource_Assessment_-_Solar
39 | P a g e

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Solar PV: Simulation and Designing

Under The Guidance Of

VARDHAN HOUSE, Anand Bazar, Danapur

Preface and Acknowledgement

Figure 0.1 India's Year-on-Year solar goals

 Information about various components of a photovoltaic power plant such as photovoltaic

 Photovoltaic system types, design philosophy, principles, examples and calculations.

 PV Systems: Comprehensive learning of industry-standard software.

Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................1

1.2 Organisation of Report ................................................................................................2

Chapter 2: Technical Descriptions ..............................................................................................3

Chapter 3: Process Flow & Solar Resource Assessment (SRA) ................................................9

3.2 Solar Resource Assessment (SRA) ...........................................................................19

Chapter 4: PVsyst & Applications of Solar PV.........................................................................21

Chapter 5: Key Issues, Challenges & Opportunities ................................................................35

Chapter 6: Conclusion & Future Scope .....................................................................................38

Figure 4.7-Monthly Meteo Data of Defined Location ...................................................................26

Table 1.1 - Installed grid interactive renewable power capacity .....................................................1

MNRE Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

Sources Installed capacity (MW) Target by 2020

1.2 Organisation of this report

2.1 Basic Terms and Concepts

2.1.2 Photovoltaic Cells (Solar Cell)

Figure 2.2 Types of Photovoltaic Cells

2.1.3 Geometrical and Astronomical Terminologies

Figure 2.3 Solar Cell Characteristic Angles

2.1.4 Irradiation (Solar Potential)

There are several measured types of solar irradiance. As follows:

Figure 2.4 GHI Map of India

Figure 2.5a Solar Radiation

o Peak Sun Hour (PSH)

Figure 2.5b Peak Sun Hour

2.1.5 Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)

2.1.6 Hybrid Systems

o Photovoltaic thermal hybrid solar collector (PVT)

3.1 How Does System Works?

3.1.1 Process of Electricity Generation

1. Photovoltaic cells absorb the sun’s energy and convert it to DC electricity

Figure 3.1 Process Flow of Solar PV Power Plant

Step: 1 The photovoltaic effect

The photovoltaic process works through the following simplified steps:

1. The silicon photovoltaic solar cell absorbs solar radiation

Step: 3 Electrical energy storage

Figure 3.2 Block Diagram of Solar PV power Generation

3.1.2 Components of Solar PV Power Plant

3.1.2.1 Photovoltaic Cell (Solar Cell)

Figure 3.3 Schematic Working of Photovoltaic Cell

Figure 3.4 Output IV Characteristics of Solar Cell

o Crystalline Silicon Solar Cells

o Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells

o Thin Film Silicon Solar Cells

o Organic PV Solar Cells

o Multi Layer (Tandem) Solar Cells

Figure 3.5 Types of Photovoltaic Cells (Solar Cells)

3.1.2.2 Solar Inverter (PV Inverter)

The broad classification of solar inverter is listed below:

There are 3 main different types of grid tied solar inverters:

Central Inverter Microgrid Inverter String Inverter

Table 3.1 Comparison of Grid Tied Solar Inverters

Type Power Efficiency Market

Central inverter above 100 kWp 98.5% 48%

Micro-inverter module power range 90–95% 1.5%

String inverter up to 100 kWp 98% 50%