PV Cloud Cover Tracking via Power Output Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for forecasting weather effects on solar photovoltaic (PV) energy generation systems are inaccurate, costly, and rely on indirect calculations, making it difficult to predict and mitigate the impact of storm systems and dense cloud cover on power output.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that uses power measurement data to determine the presence and density of cloud cover by calculating differences between present and historical power outputs, allowing for the control of load characteristics such as charging profiles for energy storage devices and time-shifting load profiles to mitigate the effects of cloud cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional storm forecasting methods are used for downstream EG sites, then forecasting can be performed, but accuracy is poor and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the PV sites themselves as sensors to detect cloud cover. The PV systems generate power measurements that directly indicate local weather conditions, eliminating the need for separate forecasting infrastructure. Each PV site serves dual purposes: energy generation and weather monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
Power measurements from PV systems serve as an intermediary indicator of cloud cover conditions. Instead of directly measuring weather parameters, the system uses the PV power output as a proxy that correlates with cloud cover density and storm conditions.
2Measurement precision
If direct power measurement data is used to determine cloud cover, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors power measurements and compares them against expected values to detect deviations caused by cloud cover. This feedback loop enables real-time detection and tracking of weather conditions, with the system automatically adjusting its monitoring and forecasting activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weather measurement instruments with an electronic/digital system that uses existing PV power measurements. Instead of deploying physical sensors to measure cloud cover directly, the system substitutes this with analysis of electrical power output data from PV systems.
3Productivity
If preemptive actions are taken based on accurate forecasting, then productivity is improved, but loss of time for data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of cloud cover conditions and forecasts their movement toward downstream PV sites before significant power loss occurs. By identifying weather patterns early and tracking their progression, the system enables advance preparation and load management actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically tracks the movement and evolution of cloud cover conditions across multiple PV sites over time. By monitoring changes in power measurements across the network, the system can predict the trajectory of weather systems and adjust forecasts in real-time as conditions evolve.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method includes receiving power measurement data for a photovoltaic (PV)-based energy generation (EG) sites, determining if cloud cover is present over the EG site based on a difference between a present and historical power output for the EG site, calculating a density of the cloud cover over the EG site based on the present and historical power outputs, and controlling load characteristics of the EG site based on the determined presence and calculated density of the cloud cover. The density of the cloud cover is based on a percentage difference in power output between the present power output and the historical power output. A vector for the cloud cover can be determined based on movement of a detected storm system with a boundary defined by a location of a plurality of EG sites, or by a movement of the cloud density from one EG site to the next.