Print this page Print this page

Photovoltaic Project Analysis

Velimir Lackovic, MScEE


Course Outline

This course describes photovoltaic systems (PV modules, batteries, power conditioning, generators, and pumps) and discusses the photovoltaic markets including on-grid, off-grid and water pumping applications.

In this course calculation methods used for PV project modelling have been shown in detail. The tilted irradiance calculation algorithm and the PV array model are common to all applications. The tilted irradiance calculation uses an hourly model extended to take into account tracking surfaces. The PV array model takes into account changes in array performance induced by ambient temperature. The On-grid model and the Water pumping model are relatively simple models based on assumed average efficiencies. The Off-grid model is more complex and allows for a distinction between matched, continuous and intermittent loads which may have an influence on the amount of energy going through the battery.

This course is suitable for engineers with a desire to understand the fundamentals of setting PV project. Presented details cover issues related to technical and financial implementation and exploitation of PV systems. Upon successful completion engineers will be able to address PV terms, methods of operation and how to set up detailed technical and financial feasibility model.

This course includes a multiple choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.

Learning Objective

At the conclusion of this course, the student will become familiar with:

Intended Audience

This course is intended for electrical and mechanical engineers.

Benefit to Attendees

Attendee of this course will understand basic photovoltaic terms and principles and methods for photovoltaic project assessment. Also attendee will be able to calculate important financial parameters that are used to indicate project feasibility.

Course Introduction

Demand for cost effective off-grid power systems, environmental and longer-term fuel supply concerns by governments and electric utilities are beginning to help accelerate the market for demonstration programs for PV systems connected to central electric grids in industrialised countries.

This course describes photovoltaic systems (PV modules, batteries, power conditioning, generators, and pumps) and discusses the photovoltaic markets including on-grid, off-grid and water pumping applications.

Course Content

In this lesson, you are required to download and study the following course content in PDF format:

Photovoltaic Project Analysis

Please click on the above underlined hypertext to view, download or print the document for your study. Because of the large file size, we recommend that you first save the file to your computer by right clicking the mouse and choosing "Save Target As ...", and then open the file in Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you still experience any difficulty in downloading or opening this file, you may need to close some applications or reboot your computer to free up some memory.

Course Summary

In this course calculation methodology used for photovoltaic project modeling have been shown in detail. The tilted irradiance calculation algorithm and the PV array model are common to all applications. The tilted irradiance calculation uses an hourly model extended to take into account tracking surfaces. The PV array model takes into account changes in array performance induced by ambient temperature. The On-grid model and the Water pumping model are relatively simple models based on assumed average efficiencies. The Off-grid model is more complex and allows for a distinction between matched, continuous and intermittent loads which may have an influence on the amount of energy going through the battery.

Quiz

Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.

Take a Quiz


DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.