Performance evaluation of an experimental 100 kW Kalyanpur solar photovoltaic power plant-a case study

The operational structures, functions and performance of a 100 kW (peak) grid interactive experimental solar photovoltaic power plant are reported. The interconnection schemes of the modules forming arrays supplying power to the load are discussed. The fourth unit of the plant which is isolated and independently supplies power to the utility grid is studied. Several improvements in performance are suggested particularly in load management, power controller, voltage regulator and tracking for optimum utilization of the plant. It is found that the system utility can be highly improved by making the plant totally grid-interactive instead of using it as partially stand-alone system. By using load management, a multi-role scheme for the plant is suggested. In addition to its normal function, the plant can also work as a storage and peak power plant.