PV Reserve Power Control via Radiometer Forecasting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photovoltaic systems face challenges in accurately predicting and controlling power output due to volatility in solar radiation and cloud cover, leading to inefficiencies and instability in grid power supply.
Innovation Solution
A combination radiometer and sky imager system that measures spectral and angular solar radiation, along with a shadowband for precise calibration, enables accurate forecasting and control of solar power output by determining a reserve power margin, allowing for intelligent dispatch of power to stabilize the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If maximum power output is supplied to the electrical grid, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to inability to compensate for forecasting errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by maintaining a reserve power output capability before grid power deficits occur. The controller is configured to maintain the solar panel array at an operating point that preserves a reserve power margin above the predetermined power output, enabling immediate response to unexpected radiation changes without waiting for forecasting errors to manifest.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the operating point of the solar panel array. Instead of operating at fixed maximum power, the controller modifies the operating parameters to maintain a reserve power margin, allowing the system to transition between predetermined output and maximum available output based on real-time radiation conditions.
2Reliability
If reserve power output is maintained, then reliability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to reduced power supplied to the grid
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamics by making the power output flexible rather than static. The controller continuously monitors solar radiation conditions and dynamically adjusts the power output between the predetermined level (maintaining reserve) and maximum available power, allowing the reserve power margin to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback through the controller that monitors both the predetermined power output requirement and the actual maximum available power from solar panels. This feedback mechanism enables the controller to maintain the appropriate reserve power margin by comparing expected versus available power and adjusting operations accordingly.
3Productivity
If maximum power point tracking is used, then productivity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to control power output level
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by separating the power output control into two distinct components: a predetermined power output level and a reserve power margin. This segmentation allows independent control of the base power supply and the flexible reserve capacity, enabling the system to meet grid requirements while maintaining adaptability to radiation changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the accuracy of solar radiation measurements and power output control, enabling the system to maintain a reserve power margin that can be instantly dispatched to compensate for forecasting errors and stabilize the grid, thus improving the reliability and efficiency of solar power integration into the electrical grid.
Implementation Method 1
A combination radiometer and sky imager system that measures spectral and angular solar radiation
Implementation Method 2
Images of the sky, commonly referred to as 'sky images,' are employed in diverse applications
Implementation Method 3
A multi-filter rotating shadowband radiometer is a sun photometer that collects sky radiation through a diffuser, and uses a rotating shadowband to separately measure the global and diffuse components of the radiative field
Implementation Method 4
Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, which is typically converted by an inverter to alternating current (AC)
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic power station includes, for example, a plurality of solar panels at a first location, the plurality of solar panels operable to provide a maximum power output, a controller operable to supply, from the plurality of solar panels, a predetermined power output less than the maximum power output to an electrical grid, and wherein the photovoltaic power station is operable to maintain, from the plurality of solar panels, a reserve power output to provide the reserve power output to the electrical grid, the reserve power output being the difference between the maximum power output and the predetermined power output.