Performance Evaluation and Optimization of the 600 Kwp Grid-Tied Solar Photovoltaic System at Strathmore University, Kenya
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Date
2024-03
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
Kenya boasts of abundant solar irradiation across its expansive regions, averaging
between 4.5 kWh/m2
and 6 kWh/m2
per day. Despite this advantageous condition,
solar energy's contribution to the national energy mix remains relatively low. This is
partly occasioned by the solar PV systems degradation over time due to aging and
other environmental factors. To boost solar energy contribution to the national grid, it
is crucial to assess the performance of existing grid-tied solar PV systems and develop
strategies to improve their energy yields and further help in designing and installing
new plants. This study presents a technical performance analysis of a 600 kWp grid tied solar PV system at Strathmore University, monitored over one year between
January and December 2019. Economic and thermographic analysis of the solar PV
system was done. In addition, tilt angle optimization was done and experimentally
validated. The performance indices studied according to IEC 61724 standard include
performance ratio, capacity utilization factor, array yield, reference yield, final yield,
total collection losses, and total energy yield. This solar plant generated 735 MWh in
2019. The annual average monthly performance ratio, capacity factor, and annual
specific energy yield were 57.4%, 13.97%, and 1,225 kWh/kWp, respectively. The
annual average monthly final yield, array yield, reference yield, and total system
collection losses were 3.37 kWh/kWp, 4.49 kWh/kWp, 5.9 kWh/kWp, and 2.53
kWh/kWp, respectively. The thermographic analysis done showed that the system
exhibits normal temperature distribution. The economic analysis demonstrated
Levelized Cost of Energy and simple payback period of US$ 0.143/kWh and 9.1
years, respectively. The optimal tilt angle obtained through experimental validation
was 11°. Further analysis on the effect of air gap on the PV performance indicated
that by increasing the air gap of the solar panel from 100 mm to 150 mm, the back
sheet temperature of the module decreased by 7.5% due to the increased flow of
cooling convection air currents. The study reveals that the Strathmore University
system's performance is comparable to other solar plants worldwide.
Description
A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Award of Master of Science (Renewable Energy Technology) in the School of Engineering and Architecture of Kenyatta University March, 2024