Capacitor Load Based I–V Curve Tracer for Performance Characterisation of the Solar Photovoltaic System

Abstract: The capacitor based load method possess the capability to perform during non-uniform environmental conditions with auto-sweep functionality in the process of outdoor performance characterisation of Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) module. This paper proposes a smart, portable, economical and scalable Current–Voltage Curve Tracer (IVCT) and Power–Voltage Curve Tracer (PVCT). Proposed I–V tracer is based on the capacitive loading method with the Internet of Thing (IoT) capabilities. The developed system has IoT features to upload real-time curve traces and access statistical and analytical data of the SPV module over a remote location or rural area. The system developed here in comprises economic data logging circuit which adapts as per the rapidly changing light condition during I–V tracing. MATLAB simulation and actual hardware experimental tests performed for the evaluation and validation of the proposed IV curve tracer results. © 2020, Allerton Press, Inc.