Optimal sizing of a grid integrated solar photovoltaic system

This study proposes an optimal sizing methodology for a solar photovoltaic (SPV) system considering lifetime cost requirements. The aim of the design is optimal sizing of SPV system, which is obtained by calculating SPV system output power at certain location, taking into account the calculated optimal number of SPV modules, optimal number of inverters, optimal tilt angle, for a given dimension of land. This design is aimed for minimising the annual cost of grid-integrated SPV system over its life or years of operation. The cost function takes into account the capital cost of installation, operation and maintenance, for each component of the system and the cost of selling energy to the grid. The sizing optimisation has been formulated as a non-linear, multi-variable problem and the particle swarm optimisation algorithm has been tested using MATLAB platform for a particular location to swot up the feasibility of integrated system. The monthly averaged daily and hourly solar radiation data for a given location is calculated using empirical relations on MATLAB platform. Other inputs are specifications of commercially available devices and meteorological details of location.