SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT OF A STANDALONE SOLAR MICROGRID FOR OPTIMAL OPERATION

Abstract

The nonlinear characteristics of output current and power in a photovoltaic source present challenges in establishing operating curves under various conditions. Existing models inadequately assess performance across all model parameters and series-parallel combinations. This study evaluates the performance of the solar power source at Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria for optimal operation. Using the Simscape library in MATLAB Simulink, the microgrid's basic components—photovoltaic source, inverter, and load—were modelled to examine operational characteristics under different conditions. Simulation results revealed the effects of solar irradiation and temperature on the photovoltaic source. The study also assessed the impact of maximum power point tracking control as the chosen control mechanism. Findings showed that the power source's performance falls short of simulated generation levels, suggesting areas for system improvement. The model not only serves as a performance analysis tool and microgrid capacity evaluation method but also lays the groundwork for overall system enhancement.