Micro-grid concept improves solar PV harvesting

A new modular, scalable and flexible micro grid system was developed and demonstrated, where batteries and a smart controller were used to maximise the use of solar energy. Advanced data analysis was used to verify the functionality in addition to identify opportunities for increased harvesting of solar energy. PR of load and solar energy profiles could be used to enhance the power forecasts and hence the utilisation of the battery. A variant of the micro-grid demonstrator has been developed as a product and provided to health clinics in Zimbabwe for the UNDP. EPR developed a method to state the workability of a DC-based PV system, showing strong economic potential but a broader supply of components is required to realise this. 

Solar power plant monitoring

EPR compared 2 systems for fault detection and diagnosis of large-scale grid-connected PV systems. By simulating errors, complementary benefits were found using a standard PV monitoring and a PQ monitoring system. Analysis on detection of snow and dust covering of solar PV plant using PR technology showed promising patterns.