ASSIGNMENT NO-1

Simulation and modelling of solar PV Pannel

Theory :
A Solar Photovoltaic Module is available in a range of 3 WP to 300 WP. But many
times, we need power in a range from kW to MW. To achieve such a large power, we need
to connect N-number of modules in series and parallel.

A String of PV Modules
When N-number of PV modules are connected in series. The entire string of series-
connected modules is known as the PV module string. The modules are connected in series
to increase the voltage in the system. The following figure shows a schematic of series,
parallel and series parallel connected PV modules.
PV Module Array

To increase the current N-number of PV modules are connected in parallel. Such a

connection of modules in a series and parallel combination is known as “Solar Photovoltaic
Array” or “PV Module Array”. A schematic of a solar PV module array connected in series-
parallel configuration is shown in the figure below.

Solar Module Cell:

The solar cell is a two-terminal device. One is positive (anode) and the other is negative
(cathode). A solar cell arrangement is known as solar module or solar panel where solar
panel arrangement is known as photovoltaic array.It is important to note that with the
increase in series and parallel connection of modules the power of the modules also gets
added.

Series Connection of Modules

Sometimes the system voltage required for a power plant is much higher than what a single
PV module can produce. In such cases, N-number of PV modules is connected in series to
deliver the required voltage level. This series connection of the PV modules is similar to that
of the connections of N-number of cells in a module to obtain the required voltage level.
The following figure shows PV panels connected in series configuration.

With this series connection, not only the voltage but also the power generated by the
module also increases. To achieve this the negative terminal of one module is connected to
the positive terminal of the other module.It is important to note that the summation of
voltages at the maximum power point is also applicable in case of PV array.

Parallel Connection of Modules

Sometimes to increase the power of the solar PV system, instead of increasing the
voltage by connecting modules in series the current is increased by connecting modules in
parallel. The current in the parallel combination of the PV modules array is the sum of
individual currents of the modules.
The voltage in the parallel combination of the modules remains the same as that of
the individual voltage of the module considering that all the modules have identical voltage.
The parallel combination is achieved by connecting the positive terminal of one module to
the positive terminal of the next module and negative terminal to the negative terminal of
the next module as shown in the following figure. The following figure shows solar panels
connected in parallel configuration.
 If the current IM1 is the maximum power point current of one module and IM2 is the
maximum power point current of other module then the total current of the parallel-
connected module will be IM1 + IM2. If we keep on adding modules in parallel the current
keeps adding up. It is also applicable for short-circuit current Isc.

Series – Parallel Connection of Modules – Mixed Combination

When we need to generate large power in a range of Giga-watts for large PV system
plants we need to connect modules in series and parallel. In large PV plants first, the
modules are connected in series known as “PV module string” to obtain the required
voltage level.
Then many such strings are connected in parallel to obtain the required current level for the
system. The following figures shows the connection of modules in series and parallel. To
simplify this, take a look at right in the following figure.
Simulation Circuit:

Result Graphs:

fig.1 :Voltage across combination of solar cells

 Fig 2 : Current through solar cell

Specifications:
Conclusion :

An in-depth study of the solar photovoltaic module and array was carried out. The need,
structure, and design of the modules for higher power level was studied. We also saw an
explanation of the PV module array along with its need and connection combination.
procedure for the design of series, parallel, and mix connections were done in detail, Such a
study of Photovoltaic module and array is a must requirement for a designer of the PV
system.