Modeling and fault simulation of photovoltaic generation systems using circuit-based model

In this paper, a circuit-based simulation model of a photovoltaic (PV) panel using PSIM software package is first developed. Then, 3kW PV arrays established using the proposed PSIM model with series and parallel connections are not only employed to represent its I-V and P-V characteristics at variable surface temperatures and isolations under normal operation, but also to carry out the fault simulation. The proposed model can be applied to any brand of PV modules by setting the parameters properly. A 3kW PV system constructed with the SIEMENS SP75 solar modules is selected as an example to verify the validity of the proposed simulation model.