Comparing Actual Measurement and PVsyst Simulation Results for Energy Generation of Microgrid-Connected PV Systems

This paper evaluates the uncertainty in energy generation of a 12 kW
p
microgrid (MG)-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system located at the University of Kashan campus. The study compares long-term recorded measurements and PVsyst simulations for energy generation of PV systems over the course of a year. It is focused on specific yield and the deviation between the measured net energy generated by the PV facility and the calculated useful produced energy by PVsyst software. The results indicate a significant difference between the output power and the simulation results from PVsyst during colder months. However, in warmer months, the disparity between recorded measurements and simulated results is less than 10%. The largest deviation occurs in November, where the difference exceeds 35%. Generally, PVsyst software estimates the energy output from the PV system with an uncertainty of less than 10%. These findings contribute to understanding the variability in PV power generation and developing effective energy management strategies. Such strategies are crucial for ensuring a reliable power supply within an MG.