Complete and versatile remote controller for PV systems

Abstract

The promotion of the distributed generation and the photovoltaic (PV) energy great potential put this technology in the spotlight of investors. Thus, the optimization of its efficiency is made a priority. In this paper, a complete and versatile remote controller (C&VRC) for PV systems is presented, scalable to any kind and size of installations (with or without partial shading, with or without connection to the grid, housing, small plants or even large-scale solar plants) and valid for any weather conditions. The C&VRC involves the controller itself, which is constituted by a set of sensors and actuators connected to the converters Direct Current (DC)/DC and DC/Alternating Current (AC), if necessary, and a control unit communicated with them through the third-generation mobile telecommunications technology (3G) network. The control strategies can be changed according to the different weather conditions and installations characteristics, which guaranties the optimum performance of the system. The use of the 3G network as communication platform makes the C&VRC useful in remote and low accessibility places, because it is the most extended worldwide. The C&VRC is also based on free software, open hardware and low-cost electronic devices. Experimental results are presented in this paper to show the C&VRC optimum usability.