Modeling PV Modules Using Simulink / MATLAB under Varying Conditions

Studying the behavior of PV modules under varying conditions is essential, due to the various environmental conditions that can affect the performance of the PV module. In this paper, basic functions in Simulink/MATLAB are used to model a 36-cell-50W PV module (solar panel) manufactured by AMERESCO Solar. Experimental measurements were acquired from the AMERESCO solar panel, and compared with the theoretical results obtained from the Simulink model. For the sake of simplicity, and without the loss of generality; a 5-parameter mathematical model of the PV module is used to model the PV module of interest. Since the purpose of most PV module simulations is to study the P-V and I-V characteristics of the PV module, detailed P-V and I-V curves are generated from the Simulink model and compared with their counterparts provided by AMERESCO (in the manufacturer manual). This paper will also present a brief and basic attempt of studying partial shading in single PV modules.