Computational Diagnostics of Photovoltaic Smoothing Potential for Composite Orientations

Abstract

Conventional orientation of solar panels facing south are escalating the variability of solar power by introducing large output fluctuations, thus creating stress on power system stability and system security. Solar power output is derived at 1 Hz resolution for 513 different orientations for each month of the year. Output fluctuations, maximum output fluctuation and number of control operations are used as an index to determine the strength of smoothing. Optimal PV (photovoltaic) orientations for each month of the year are estimated, so that the solar power output fluctuations attenuate without reducing the energy production below 10%. Solar power smoothing potential associated with panel orientation enhances at the cost of its production loss and its effective utilization depends on optimal decisions made w.r.t type of the PV system, grid flexibility requirements and operational constraints.