This paper presents the results of a study on the performance of various inverter technologies for commercial photovoltaic systems when subjected to different shading and soiling conditions. The conditions included both sunny and cloudy days as a control group, as well as four different shading setups designed to simulate realistic conditions such as cloud cover, soiling, and shadows. Voltage, current, and power measurements were taken using independent eGauge sensors. Incidentally, during the execution of the project, there was a large wildfire from Canada that resulted in significant smog cover for two weeks over the area where the solar panels are installed. This provided an additional opportunity to study the impact of smoke on solar panel power production.
From the data collected over one year, it is determined that the AP Systems microinverters are the most efficient under all conditions. It is evident from the data that shading strings horizontally has a larger impact on reducing power output than vertical shading due to the configuration of solar cells within each module. The effects of the smog from nearby wildfires were observed to be similar to that of cloud cover, but with a lesser impact on the dynamics of the total energy generated. Finally, a cost versus benefit analysis for the lifetime of the different inverters was performed.
This project proved to be invaluable for all parties involved: the students, the faculties, and the industrial partner. The students learn practical hands-on field experience by working alongside engineers from the solar panel industry. They recognize the importance and utility of interdisciplinary work. Moreover, the team-oriented nature of this project will foster students’ development of essential skills in teamwork, communication, and time-management, serving them well into their professional careers.
Xichen Jiang joined the department of electrical engineering at Western Washington University in 2016 as an assistant professor. He received his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degree all in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. While a student there, Xichen has interned with Coilcraft, Proctor and Gamble, Exxon Mobil, and Viasat.
Jill Davishahl is the Director of Pre-Engineering Program Development and faculty member at Western Washington University. She spends her time teaching, developing and implementing innovative curriculum, and working to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for first year students. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineering students to think outside of the box, especially those that are walking along a non-traditional pathway.
Dana has worked in the solar industry for 5 years. He started his career at itek Energy, a domestic solar module manufacturer based in Bellingham, WA. During his time as Technical Support Manager he worked to ensure product functionality in the field, assisted with research and development, and provided technical training to customers. He has since moved on from itek Energy and is now working as a project manager at Western Solar Inc, a solar installation company in Bellingham, WA. His work involves system design, operations and maintenance support, customer and technical support, product research, and community outreach efforts. He is a NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional and enjoys working on solar education projects in his community.
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