EC.S07 | Fall 2004 | Undergraduate

Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems

Calendar

SES # TOPICS KEY DATES
1

Introduction

Types of Photovoltaic Systems

History of PV Technology Development

Current Status: Technology, Policy, Markets

 
2

The Solar Resource
Solar Geometry - Direct Beam Flux onto a Surface “In Space”

Earth-bound Flux - Kt, the “Clearness Index”

Exercise #1 due
3

The Solar Resource (cont.)

Database - US Sites

Monthly Average Daily Insolation, TMY Data

 
4

The Photovoltaic Module

Current-voltage Characteristics, Insolation, Temperature Effects

Module Efficiency, Module Rating, “Full Sun Hours” Output

Exercise #2 due
5

Photovoltaic Array Performance

Series, Parallel Module Networking, Diode Placement

Output as Function of Array Orientation, Tracking

 
6

Stand-alone System Elements

Energy Storage, Battery Characteristics

Load Requirements

Charge Control, Max. Power Tracking, Load Management

Exercise #3 due
7

Stand-alone System Sizing

First Order Estimation of Average Daily Performance

 
8

Stand-alone System Sizing (cont.)

Probability of Loss of Load - Markov Process Model

Exercise #4 due
9

Stand-alone System Sizing (cont.)

Effect of Day-to-day Correlation

 
10

Evaluation of PV Station Data

Solar Resource

Module Output - Temperature Effects

 
11

Grid-connected Systems

Power Conditioning

Utility Constraints

 
12

Grid-connected Systems (cont.)

Architectural/Structural Considerations

 
13

PV Cost/Benefit Calculations

Net Present Value - Ex: Almeda County Megawatt Facility

Government Subsidies and Incentives

Exercise #5 due
14 Student Presentations Final report due

Course Info

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As Taught In
Fall 2004
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Simulations
Lecture Notes
Written Assignments
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