A comparison study of interpolation and circuit based photovoltaic mathematical models

In the photovoltaic (PV) emulator application, an accurate PV mathematical model is needed to ensure the emulator can produce the same current-voltage (I-V) characteristic of a PV panel. The PV circuit model is able to simulate the PV panel accurately. However, this model requires the numerical method to solve the implicit equation of the model and the complex parameter extraction can burden the PV emulator controller. A simple and flexible PV model is needed for the PV emulator without compromising its accuracy. Two interpolation models are compared in term of adaptability, simplicity and accuracy with single diode model with series resistance (1D1R model) to determine the suitable PV model for the PV emulator system. The 1D1R Model is more accurate and adaptable compared to the interpolation models. However, the Interpolation models perform faster compared to the circuit model.