Optimization of photovoltaic module electrical characteristics using genetic algorithm

Abstract

This paper presents the optimization of PV module electrical characteristics using genetic algorithm (GA). A mathematical modeling was used to characterize the electrical characteristics of PV module. A 180 W, 30 V, Sharp mono-crystal silicon PV module (NUS0E3E) was used in this paper. This PV module consists of 48 solar cells configured in series strings. Under constant temperature and different solar irradiance were tested to the PV module using GA, its electrical characteristics shown in curves and compared to the data sheet and a reference and also 3-dimensional diagram as function of both solar irradiance and temperature shown and discussed. The result shows that the comparison of simulation results using GA with data sheet of current-voltage and power-voltage curve illustrates a good correlation, if the temperature constant and solar irradiance increase will cause the short circuit current, open circuit voltage, maximum power and efficiency increase.