21EEO307T
CLEAN AND
GREEN ENERGY
Open Elective
Session 4
Analysis of Solar Radiation Data
Home Assignment
• Solar radiation data
• [Link]
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• Potheri latitude and longitude- 12.8259° N, 80.0395° E
Session Learning Outcomes
• Calculate solar energy potential for a specific location using solar radiation
data.
• Use statistical or computational tools to analyze trends in solar radiation
data over time.
• Use solar radiation data to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of solar
energy systems.
PVsyst
• PVsyst is a software application tailored for use by architects,
engineers, and researchers.
• It serves not only as a practical tool for professionals but also as
an educational resource.
• The software features an extensive contextual Help menu that
elucidates the methodologies and models applied within its
framework, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
• It provides guidance throughout the development of a project.
• Furthermore, PVsyst can import meteorological data and personal
data from a wide array of sources, enhancing its versatility and
applicability in various contexts.
Designing a rooftop grid-connected PV system
for an academic institution using PVsyst
• Step 1: Gather Required Data
• Site Information:
• Latitude, longitude, and altitude of the site.
• Shading obstacles (nearby buildings, trees, etc.).
• Solar Resource Data:
• Use PVsyst’s built-in meteorological database or import solar radiation data (e.g., from
Meteonorm or NASA’s database).
• Load Profile:
• Determine the institution's energy requirements (daily and seasonal load profile).
• Identify critical and non-critical loads.
• Step 2: Define the Project in PVsyst
• Open PVsyst and create a new project.
• Enter the project name, description, and location details.
• Specify the system type as grid-connected (On-grid).
Designing a rooftop grid-connected PV system
for an academic institution using PVsyst
• Step 3: Define System Specifications
• Set System Parameters:
• Choose the system type as Grid-Connected.
• Enter the estimated annual energy demand.
• Specify the available roof area.
• Select PV Module:
• Go to the System Definition tab and select a PV module from the database.
• Ensure the module’s specifications align with the project (e.g., wattage, efficiency, and temperature coefficient).
• Choose Inverter:
• Select an inverter from the database that matches the system size and design.
• Ensure it supports the grid voltage and frequency.
• Define System Layout:
• Determine the number of modules per string and the number of strings per inverter.
• Ensure voltage and current remain within inverter limits.
• Step 4: Shading Analysis
• Use the Near Shading tool in PVsyst to create a 3D model of the rooftop.
• Input building dimensions and add objects that may cast shadows (e.g., parapets, nearby structures).
• Simulate shading losses using detailed analysis.
Designing a rooftop grid-connected PV system
for an academic institution using PVsyst
• Step 5: Orientation and Tilt Optimization
• Set the module tilt angle and orientation (azimuth) based on the site’s geographical location.
• Optimal tilt angle is usually close to the site’s latitude.
• Orient modules to face south in the Northern Hemisphere (or north in the Southern Hemisphere).
• Use the optimization tool in PVsyst to fine-tune these parameters.
• Step 6: Simulate the System
• Run a preliminary simulation to:
• Calculate energy output.
• Estimate performance ratio (PR).
• Analyze energy losses (due to shading, temperature, soiling, etc.).
• Review and adjust system parameters if needed.
• Step 7: Financial Analysis
• Use the Economic Evaluation tool in PVsyst to estimate:
• Initial investment.
• Payback period.
• Levelized cost of electricity (LCOE).
• Savings over the system's lifetime.
• Include any subsidies or incentives applicable to the institution.
Designing a rooftop grid-connected PV system
for an academic institution using PVsyst
• Step 8: Validate Design
• Check compliance with grid interconnection regulations and standards (voltage, harmonics, safety
requirements).
• Ensure all components are rated for the environmental conditions (e.g., temperature range, wind load).
• Step 9: Generate Reports
• Use PVsyst to create detailed project reports, including:
• System design specifications.
• Energy generation estimates.
• Loss diagrams and financial analysis.
• Share these reports with stakeholders for approval.
• Step 10: Installation and Commissioning
• Coordinate with engineers for installation based on the approved design.
• After installation:
• Verify system performance matches the PVsyst simulation.
• Perform system commissioning and testing.
• Train institutional staff on system monitoring and basic maintenance.
Performance ratio analysis – University building (2020)- 105.3 kW capacity
University building
EY PR=
Month kWh
YR Yf Final Yield/Reference
yield
Jan-20 12855 144.6 122 84.4
Feb-20 10362 156.4 98.4 62.9
Mar-20 12923 189.8 123 64.7
Apr-20 8045 184.8 76.4 41.3
May-20 10420 182.4 99 54.3
Jun-20 10219 162.2 97 59.8
Jul-20 9715 157.9 92.3 58.4
Aug-20 9713 156.8 92.2 58.8
Sep-20 9119 154 86.6 56.2
Oct-20 9880 135.1 93.8 69.5 Reference yield = 144.6/1 = 144.6 h
Nov-20 8430 112.6 80.1 71.1 Final yield = 12855/105.3 = 122 h
Dec-20 7556 117.9 71.8 60.9
Key takeaways
•Solar PV System Design: Data informs optimal panel placement (tilt and orientation) and expected
energy yield.
•Energy Forecasting: Helps predict daily and seasonal energy production for grid integration.
•Site Suitability: Determines the viability of locations for solar installations.
FT-1 Energy yield (kWh)Data-Calculate the Performance ratio
MBA 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
block
Jan 11032 8166 9248 9826 8226
Feb 11527 9933 9249 11302 11174
Mar 13040 13717 11711 12916 14017
Apr 12957 13474 12069 13143 14351
May 13369 13680 11924 11908 12876
Jun 11622 12308 12521 10979 11934
Jul 11214 11663 11576 10524 12024
Aug 10937 12266 12159 12307 13170
Sep 10067 11598 10937 11529 11906
Oct 10759 10229 9826 10224 11368
Nov 8149 5550 7332 6615 9571
Dec 7438 9623 8062 6140 8200
