Modeling Impact of Panel Configuration and Ambient Conditions on PV Generation System Outputs for Aggregate Power Flow Studies

Higher power outputs from increasing numbers of grid-connected PV generation systems necessitate the use of simple yet accurate models for evaluating their aggregate impact on the grid. This paper presents simplified generic efficiency-based models of the four main types of PV panels and compares them with commonly used, but computationally demanding single-diode models. The presented generic models take into account not only ambient temperature, but also wind speed and PV panel configuration (open or closed). Measurements from an actual PV installation are used to illustrate modelling procedure and demonstrate its accuracy.