International Journal of Energy Research, Vol.45, No.1, 759-771, 2021
A new integrated single-diode solar cell model for photovoltaic power prediction with experimental validation under real outdoor conditions
The output power prediction by a photovoltaic (PV) system is an important research area for which different techniques have been used. Solar cell modeling is one of the most used methods for power prediction, the accuracy of which strongly depends on the selection of cell parameters. In this study, a new integrated single-diode solar cell model based on three, four, and five solar cell parameters is developed for the prediction of PV power generation. The experimental validation of the predicted results is done under outdoor climatic conditions for an Indian location. The predicted power by three models is found close to measured values within 4.29% to 4.76% accuracy range. The comparative power estimation analysis by these models shows that the three-parameter model gives higher accuracy for low solar irradiance values <150 W/m(2), the four-parameter model in the range of 150 to 500 W/m(2), and the five-parameter model for >500 W/m(2). The present model is also compared with other models in literature and is found to be more accurate with less percentage error. The overall results also show that the power produced depends on temperature and solar radiation levels at a particular location. Thus, single solar cell model developed can be used with sufficient accuracy for power forecast of PV systems for any location worldwide. The follow-up research areas are also identified.
Keywords:photovoltaics;PV system;single-diode model;solar cell modeling;solar cell parameters;solar power prediction