Optimization Design of a PV System Using a Genetic Algorithm

ABSTRACT Designing a PV system for self‐consumption requires knowledge of power and energy demand, solar availability and hours of autonomy. The intended system should reduce electricity bill costs, supply electricity to all loads, and maintain its efficiency. Traditional calculations and designs of solar PV systems rely on one objective and may cause over dimensioning of the system. A design tool is proposed, in this paper, aiming to optimize the design of a grid connected PV systems with Battery Energy Storage System. The proposed approach tries to minimize the initial cost of the system, alleviate the degradation of panels and batteries, reduce blackout hours, reduce power purchase and reduce the wasted generation. The degradation modes in PV panels and battery systems were modeled to expand the design to increase the lifespan of the system. The tool uses a Genetic Algorithm aiming to minimize the cost function described earlier. The proposed approach helped to reduce capital and operational costs by 61.65%.