Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community

Abstract

Background A photovoltaic (PV) system, especially the stand-alone type, along with a battery storage system, plays a significant role in providing the needed electrical energy to remote, off-grid communities. Methods In this study, a stand-alone PV solar cell was enhanced to better understand the system operation. Modeling and simulation were performed using MATLAB software. Results This work has shown that the I-V (current-voltage) and P-V (power-voltage) characteristics of the modelled system have a profound effect on energy when a pulse width modulation controller is used as a charger. The modelled PV system generated the required energy under different conditions, considering temperature and PV battery voltage mismatches. Conclusion In summary, the simulated model in this study can be considered a system capable of detecting different conditions with the presence or absence of light at different temperatures. Finally, monitoring the temperatures, adjusting the voltage with a suitable charger controller, and selecting solar modules made of optimal materials can increase the efficiency of the solar system and allow it to be used in more applications.

The True Cost of Off-Grid Solar Power: Evaluating Solar Energy in a Dense Tropical Forest

“…The optimization of PV systems, including battery storage and efficient design, is vital for ensuring reliable energy supply in off-grid locations. By utilizing renewable energy sources like solar power, these systems not only enhance energy access but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for remote electrification [9].…”

Performance evaluation and comparative study of three 52-kW PV plants in India: a case study

“…PV energy is more affordable than any other sustainable energy source, and research has shown that it is incredibly profitable in rural regions. 11 , 12 At every stage of the global solar PV supply chain, China is currently by far the largest supplier; with a manufacturing capacity for PV modules of around 340 GW/year, it has more than twice the installed PV modules worldwide, with a manufacturing capacity utilization rate for solar components of between 40 and 50% in 2021. China directly supplies all markets, except North America, where import taxes on Chinese solar PV components have been imposed.…”

“…27 Various case studies on the PV performance are accomplished by researchers by considering certain locations, 28,29 based on techno-economic assessment, 30,31 feasibility studies, 32,33 comparative studies, 34 optimizing the performance, 35 solar insolation studies and estimations [36][37][38] and several other factors. [39][40][41][42][43][44][45][46]…”