System sizing and transient simulation of a solar photovoltaic off-grid energy system in various climates with air heat pumps. (December 2022) - Mahjoob, Amirali
Abstract: Photovoltaic off-grid systems are essential in supplying power to areas remote from the grid. Mobile homes are used in various cases in remote areas, most of which are far from the power supply grid. It is not economically feasible to develop electricity networks in these areas. One of the best ways to supply power in such cases is to implement photovoltaic systems. These systems can produce electricity through solar irradiation and are environmental-friendly. However, due to the high capital cost of these systems, it is necessary to determine the optimal number of components, such as photovoltaic panels and batteries, to optimize the initial cost and achieve a desirable level of availability. In this study, the TRNSYS software is utilized to investigate the energy required by mobile homes for the ventilation system and power supply operation for different regions. A numerical method is developed to quantify the optimal photovoltaic system for each region for the optimal sizing of these systems. Also, generators have been considered in particular cases to ensure a continuous power supply. Finally, the cities are divided into different categories, showing the off-grid system performance in these regions. Results obtained for the city of Tehran, Iran, suggest that the Levelized energy cost is 0.23 USD/kWh. This system lacks 2.45%, equivalent to 118 h, of required energy and produces 56% surplus energy.