Abstract
The introduction of Distributed Flexible Network Photovoltaic (DFNPV) system is going towards solving the shortcomings of stand-alone systems in remote areas. Three types of configurations of DFNPV system are studied: star, loop, and mesh. Each configuration has many subsystems, which are assumed to have the similar characteristics and location, and consist of PV panel, DC/DC converter, and dc load.
Comparative study had been carried out from the viewpoint of power losses in wires, wire length, and initial cost. First of all for estimating the size of DFNPV system within acceptable voltage drop, relations between wire length, power loss, wire cost, and cable types are discussed. The problem in DFNPV System is to find the best location of the battery bank from a many viewpoints, minimum extension cost and minimum losses in wires. This paper describes how to optimize the best location of the common battery bank from the viewpoints of the cost of power losses and the extension cost. The results of optimizing configurations show that a star configuration for initial installations is most effective, in future expansion; loop network is more cost effective. In addition, the economic study shows the final cost advantage of DFNPV system, for three types of configurations over stand-alone ones.
