This work is aimed at verifying that analytical modelling approaches may provide an estimation of the outdoor performance of TF (thin film) PV (photovoltaic) technologies in inland sites with sunny climates with adequate accuracy for engineering purposes. Osterwald's and constant fill factor...

The outdoor performance of thin film technologies is not so satisfactorily understood as that of crystalline silicon. Despite all PV materials are influenced by the spectral irradiance, thin film PV modules are especially sensitive to it. Thus, the spectral factor (SF) is a useful index to...

This paper presents two mathematical motor-pump models for photovoltaic (PV) applications. These models will allow us to obtain the operating point with the PV array and the flow rate of the pumped water. The modelled motor-pump characteristics are current–voltage and flow–voltage. The...

The aim of this work is to analyse the performance of different photovoltaic water pumping systems. The Typical Meteorological Year (TMY) data from four distinct Algerian climatic sites are used: Algiers, Bechar, Oran and Tamanrasset. The study has been carried out for three different profiles,...

The aim of this article is to describe how closely PV grid-connected inverters (of around 5kW) operate at the actual maximum power point. These inverters could be installed at any low voltage, PV grid-connected systems. To carry this study out, twelve 50Hz single-phase inverters were selected...

In recent decades there has been an increasing interest in the use of low voltage small grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, conditioned by new incentives from distinct countries. An essential element in those systems is the inverter, that is, the element which converts, in an efficient...

At present, photovoltaic grid-connected systems (PVGCS) are experiencing a formidable market growth. This is mainly due to a continuous downward trend in PV cost together with some government support programmes launched by many developed countries. However, government bodies and prospective...

In the photovoltaic field, manufacturers provide ratings for PV modules for conditions referred to as standard test conditions (STC). However, these conditions rarely occur outdoors, so the usefulness and applicability of the indoors' characterisation in standard test conditions of PV modules...

An optimal compromise between energy efficiency and aesthetics for PV in the built environment sometimes requires to divide the PV field into sections with different orientation and tile each, which are connected to a single inverter. From the experience and data collected through a year of...

Assessing the correct operation of PV grid-connected systems (PVGCS) is paramount not only for mere energy and profitability concerns but also for safety reasons. Intended to this purpose, the IEC 62446 standard is open to some tests to be required in some circumstances, in addition to those...