Uninterruptible photovoltaic power supply: A case of system failure

A photovoltaic (PV) generator can be used in a number of several configurations. In this work a PV system was integrated into a conventional uninterruptible power supply source (UPS) in a city office building. The PV system employed different types of PV modules, did not feed the grid and did not charge a battery. The system suffered severe damage and did not produce any appreciable output for a number of years. Several design, technical and operational faults were discovered. This paper examines the symptoms and causes that led to the shortcomings, presents critical analysis and gives recommendations to solve these problems. The main problems were rectified and the system was brought back on line. Lessons learned may be implemented to avoid these mistakes in future PV installations.