Indian panel data could transform PV monitoring processes

Researchers say the use of clustering-based computation could remove the need for on-site inspections of panels by instead enabling real-time monitoring of degradation using only meteorological data.

January 11, 2019 Emiliano Bellini

The use of clustering-based computation models and meteorological data could revolutionize PV panel monitoring, claim researchers.

Image: PI Berlin

From pv magazine global.

Data collected from 57 silicon-based PV panels across five of India’s climatic zones helped inform research which could dramatically improve inspection processes.

Research conducted by scientists at the American Institute of Physics has demonstrated the potential of clustering-based computation to streamline and improve the inspection of PV panels.

The researchers made use of the variety of climatic zones present in India by mining data from crystalline a-Si, p-Si, and HIT technology panels. “HIT technology panels show the highest degradation rate, followed by p-Si and a-Si technologies, in the region of study,” stated their paper.

The researchers claim the method proposed requires only knowledge of previous meteorological data, removing the need for inspection of modules on-site. The clustering-based computation used for the study, the researchers said, relies on a performance ratio based on meteorological parameters including temperature, pressure, wind speed, humidity, sunshine hours, solar power and even the date.

Real-time monitoring

The model is based on a combination of the Hidden Markov Model – known from its application in reinforcement learning and temporal pattern recognition – and the Generalized Fuzzy Model, often used as an identifier for nonlinear dynamic systems and the back-propagation training algorithm.

“The Hidden Markov Model is used to model randomly changing systems with unobserved – or hidden – states; the Generalized Fuzzy Model attempts to use imprecise information in its modeling process,” the authors of the paper wrote. “These models involve recognition, classification, clustering and information retrieval, and are useful for adapting PV system inspection methods.”

Unlike currently available technologies for measuring PV module degradation, the new model enables calculation of degradation in real time, the researchers claim. “As a result of real-time estimation, the preventative action can be taken instantly if the output is not per the expected value,” said research coordinator Parveen Bhola.

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