Solar Inverter Output Control Using Sentinel Array Buffers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The intermittent nature of solar energy makes it challenging for utilities to rely on photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays as a dispatchable energy source, as the sun's availability is unpredictable and volatile.
Innovation Solution
A software and hardware facility that assesses the maximum available solar output from a PV array using a 'sentinel' array and calculates a usable range by defining Upper and Lower Buffers, which reduces the impact of solar blockage and inverter instability, allowing for more reliable and controlled output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If solar energy is used as an intermittent source, then environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness are improved, but reliability and dispatchability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring solar irradiance and predicting future solar output levels before actual generation occurs. This allows the control system to proactively adjust inverter settings and prepare for upcoming variations in solar availability, improving reliability while maintaining cost-effectiveness of solar energy utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously measuring actual solar output, comparing it with predicted values, and using this information to dynamically adjust inverter control parameters. This closed-loop control enhances dispatchability by ensuring the inverter responds appropriately to real-time solar conditions while maintaining optimal cost-effectiveness
2Productivity
If maximum solar output is utilized, then energy production is improved, but volatility and unpredictability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by implementing dynamic control of the inverter that adapts to changing solar conditions. The inverter continuously adjusts its operating parameters based on real-time solar irradiance measurements and predictions, enabling maximum energy production while dynamically stabilizing output to reduce volatility and improve unpredictability
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes parameter changes by modifying inverter control parameters such as power reference values and response time constants based on predicted solar conditions. These parameter adjustments enable the system to maintain high energy production while reducing output volatility through adaptive parameter optimization
3Power
If inverter operates at maximum capacity, then power output is improved, but stability and control worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by operating the inverter at optimized capacity levels rather than always at maximum. By using predictive control to determine appropriate power reference values, the system achieves sufficient power output while maintaining stability and control, avoiding the detrimental effects of continuous maximum operation
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
The facility enhances the dispatchability of solar energy by determining a reliable usable range, enabling utilities to manage solar output more effectively and integrate it into the electrical grid with greater confidence and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays
Data Source
AI summary
A facility receives an indication of a rate of energy output sought from a production array of solar panels. The facility controls a power inverter to which the production array is connected to deliver to an electrical grid to which the power inverter is connected a rate of energy output that is based on the indicated rate of energy output.