Photovoltaic systems

Research team
We are living in a turning point, when the energy sector is undergoing a fundamental change in decentralized production and consumption. With the use of smart management, it will be possible to significantly increase the share of renewable resources with the aim of reducing emissions, ensuring self-sufficiency and fair energy prices. We strive to make these solutions efficient and affordable.

We deal with development and research along two main axes. The first is the preparation of concepts for partially energy self-sufficient buildings, municipalities or city districts. We work on simulations where possible, we use real data or subsequent verification. We show new trends in technology and the possibilities of how photovoltaics can be not only a functional but also a visually attractive element of buildings. We are preparing for the emergence of energy communities, when photovoltaics will be an even more efficient and affordable resource, even without the need for subsidies.

The second part is the measurement and development of photovoltaic systems in the laboratory. Over time, we equipped our test site with an electronic solar simulator, programmable loads and an adjustable artificial grid to test batteries and inverters regardless of the weather. In cooperation with manufacturers, we help improve the efficiency and capabilities of systems. We verify and adjust them with regard to real operating conditions, which are often different from the declared ideal conditions in the technical sheet. We are also a support and consultant during subsequent installations.

Together, we use knowledge from the private sector and offer research, development and consultation at the CTU UCEEB in the field of renewable energy sources.

Main team activities

  • For PV systems, we analyze behavior, collect data and predict yields.
  • We analyze and monitor the behavior of hybrid PV systems.
  • We design PV systems for mobile applications.
  • We are testing PV inverters.
  • We deal with the prediction of illumination and performance of photovoltaic systems for the purpose of their management and energy trading.

Results

Equipment

Photovoltaic system with a power of 2.5 kWp located on the roof and connected to the laboratory by individual modules, ideal for verifying solar systems in real conditions. Tymyfoto/Fotovoltaickesystemy/FV5.jpg

An experimental workplace equipped with devices for testing the operation of various types of PV systems and the development of new components and system solutions. Great emphasis is placed on the operation of the system as a whole, its real operating conditions, management and monitoring capabilities.
The workplace is part of the accredited Laboratory of Photovoltaic Converters (LDFS) at CTU FEL. Tymyfoto/Fotovoltaickesystemy/FV1.jpg

A set of programmable loads for AC and DC current with a power of up to 5.2 kW. Loads are simulated, for example, by household appliances. Tymyfoto/Fotovoltaickesystemy/FV4.jpg

Very accurate five-channel measurement and recording of DC/AC electrical quantities including harmonic analysis and fast transients. Tymyfoto/Fotovoltaickesystemy/FV3.jpg
An electronic simulator with a maximum output of 20 kW (1000 V / 20 A) capable of statically and dynamically simulating the electrical output of photovoltaic modules according to the set operating conditions (radiation intensity, temperature, shielding). The connection makes it possible to simulate even 2 independent PV arrays (e.g. placement of modules to the east and west). Tymyfoto/Fotovoltaickesystemy/FV2.jpg