Optimal sizing of inverters for grid-connected PV systems

Jayaraman Ramachandran, Nicola Pearsall, Ghanim Putrus

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

Abstract

In grid-connected PV systems, selecting an inverter capacity lower than the PV array capacity usually leads to better economy where the duration of peak irradiance values is limited. This paper discusses the optimal size of the inverter for UK conditions using the grid-connected 39.5 kWp photovoltaic façade on Northumberland Building in Newcastle upon Tyne as an example. Different types of inverters used in grid connected PV systems have been studied and the optimal size, which gives the maximum energy efficiency, was found. The optimal size of the inverter was found to be always lower than the PV-array capacity and lies between 0.725 to 0.9 times the PV-array capacity, depending on the inverter type. The energy lost by having an inverter power rating lower than the maximum PV output power is generally offset by the energy gain due to reduced self-consumption and losses.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2002
EventUPEC 2002 - International Universities Power Engineering Conference - Stafford, UK
Duration: 1 Sept 2002 → …
http://ewh.ieee.org/cmte/ips/UPEC/UPEC02ReportStafford.pdf

Conference

ConferenceUPEC 2002 - International Universities Power Engineering Conference
Period1/09/02 → …
Internet address

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