SOLAR PV CONTROL SYSTEM.pdf

Abstract
Solar PV (photovoltaic) control System with Zigbee module is an Intelligent Energy
Solar tracking System which can be used in places of high altitudes or receive less
light intensity such as Nyeri. The solar panel will be well illuminated with a lamp to
show clearly how the solar tracking takes place. Also the temperature, position and
energy generated can be read and data sent through the Zigbee module to the
control centre and stored in database format for analysis. The system can monitor
solar PV generation and grid export. This allows the calculation of how much of
power is generated and how much is exported to the grid. The data can be logged to
a remote server and also shown in real-time on a display. All these can be done
through by Arduino microcontroller and Xbee Modules.
As the sun (light source) moves, the system automatically moves the panel by use of
the light sensor and activates the Arduino to move the motors. The temperature
readings will be read by the Arduino with the help of temperature sensor. Also the
light sensor detects the light intensity of the monitored area and data sent by
Arduino to the Zigbee module. In this case also the energy generated can be read by
the Arduino from the storage batteries and data sent in the same Zigbee module.
By using this system I can promote the dissemination of green energy which is
readily available as renewable energy and also improve efficiency as well as
provision of data read from different nodes of the system be available globally for
research, analysis and system monitoring.
To display the readings, I require a P.C. at the control centre for analysing the data
taken and an LCD display at the actual plant (system). This would be enabled via
data communication and synchronization of the whole system thus improving the
control systems using advanced communication (Zigbee Protocol) and information
technologies via programming to manage and monitor energy usage more
intelligently.
Intelligent control can allow energy systems to respond to their environment and
make operating decisions based upon achieving specific energy goals.
Email: david.irungu@stu.kuct.ac.ke
3
2012