Advanced Optimization of Photovoltaic Systems Using Response Surface Techniques (RSM)

This work includes an analysis of experimental results obtained for a 2 kW grid-connected photovoltaic system mounted on an adjustable sun tracker system. A suitable optimization model is exploited to determine the optimal factors' settings that maximize the performance of a photovoltaic system in the lowest productive period in the year concerning solar irradiance (W/m2). This system was installed at Philadelphia Solar Ltd. in Amman- Jordan. Response surface methodology was the optimization model employed in this study, and it was applied for multiple responses of interest. These responses were the input current and the input voltage; these responses were assumed to be affected by the tilt angle and the azimuth angle. It was found that the optimal tilt angle was 35°, and the optimal azimuth angle was 0°. These installation settings ensured their validity when used in periods with the worst environmental conditions in Jordan. The efficiency of the photovoltaic station can be increased by 10% in this period by operating the station using these settings, where the current value is 7.9197 A and the voltage value is 225.451 V.