Simulation and Performance Analysis of a Grid Connected Photovoltaic System in Cold Climate Region of India

摘要

System Simulation of various solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems is required to investigate the suitability at a given location. This study analyzes the performance of various grid-connected SPV systems in cold region using PVsyst simulation software tool. The locations Leh, Srinagar and, Jammu located in the Himalayas are chosen for the study as the temperatures in these three regions varied between -15°C to 32°C throughout the year. A comparison has been made between four different PV (photovoltaic) technologies: mono-Si, poly-Si, CdTe and CIS to assess the appropriate PV technology in cold climatic environment. Leh is coldest and located at the highest altitude, has highest PR>90% for all four simulated PV systems. Srinagar with moderate temperature and high global inclined insolation has highest CUF> 21% and highest energy generation from all four simulated PV systems than their counterpart. Jammu is hottest with slightly lower global inclined insolation to Leh has shown low PR value, CUF value and, energy generation amongst all. The performance comparison shows CdTe performed better in cold climate region even though the market presence and module conversion efficiency of mono-Si and poly-Si are higher.