A Python Module for Modelling and Design of Solar Panels with Unidentical Cells
Paper ID : 1014-ICEEM2023 (R1)
Authors
Muhammad Elgamal *1, Yehea Ismail2
1Center of Nanoelectronics and Devices, the American University in Cairo
2Center of Nanoelectronics and Devices, The American University in Cairo
Abstract
Accurate modelling of solar panels is important to increase its power production and design better panels. Regardless of the used technology for each of the solar cells, the output current-voltage characteristics, IV curves of the whole panel depend on the IV of each cell. We present a Python module that can simulate solar panels based on the performance of individual cells. The module uses single-diode model and applies it for each cell of the solar panel and finds total IV curve as a result. In addition, the module can perform different parameter extraction algorithms on measured IV curves. We discussed situations where the single-diode-model parameters vary among panel’s cells and how we can use this intentionally (using unidentical cells) to design panels that produce more energy. The module is open-source and can be used for educational and research purposes.
Keywords
Solar Energy, Current-Voltage Characteristics, Single-Diode-Model
Status: Accepted