Experimental test of the performances of a photovoltaic modules model

In this paper, a measurement-based modeling technique for PV panels oriented to power electronics design is proposed. The proposed modelling approach aims at an accurate modeling of the whole PV curve and not only around a few remarkable points. The proposed approach is based on an experimental characterization of the module under test. In fact, the incompleteness of manufacturers' data and the knowledge of physical parameters are the main source of inaccuracy in existing modelling approaches. The proposed approach is applied to a four lumped parameters model of a Conergy E215P solar module. Tests are performed under natural light. The parameter identification procedure is described in detail. Simulation and experimental results are compared to test the accuracy of the proposed model. As it will be shown by the comparison between simulation and experimental results, the worst-case model current error within the current source region is equal to 1.19% and the worst-case voltage error is equal to 2.9% within the voltage source region.