Double sweep tracer for I-V curves characterization and continuous monitoring of photovoltaic facilities

Abstract

The good performance of solar photovoltaic energy facilities implies the previous evaluation of the electrical behaviour of the solar modules used. Among other ways, this evaluation can be done by means of the static voltage-current characteristic (I-V curve), but also through a real-time electrical parameters monitoring. This paper proposes the design of an I-V curve tracer with electronic load. The main advantages of the prototype are its reduced cost, scalability, wireless control and sampling rate. A PIC18F46K80 microprocessor was used for the design and construction of the prototype.The development of an Android app allows thecontrol of the prototype and the data acquisition from any mobile or tablet device. Additionally, the tracer can be con?gured for a continuous monitoring of the electrical parameters, temperature and irradiance.