DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS FOR 50 MW GRID CONNECTED SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANT IN LIBYA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The primary goal when designing a photovoltaic system is to ensure that the amount of energy generated from sunlight aligns with the energy needs of the load it is intended to power. Various factors, such as environmental conditions, inverter characteristics, and grid integration, impact the amount of energy a grid-connected photovoltaic system can generate. System designers must have a comprehensive understanding of the parameters that affect system performance and safety, as well as those that can be adjusted without significant consequences. Factors like location, tilt, orientation, power rating, system voltage, and electrical specifications of system components are considered critical for the successful design of a photovoltaic system.

This paper considers the comparison between fixed and single axis tracking panels, as well as the comparison between string inverters and central inverters. In this paper, the possibility of utilizing suitable terrain in Libya for large-scale photovoltaic power plants connected to the national grid is explored. The paper specifically examines the design of A.C Power of 50 (MW_AC) grid-connected solar PV plant in Bani Walid City. The study aims to determine the optimum design that minimizes power loss and increases the generated power by varying design variables. The results show that the generated power using a tracking panel is 25% more than that used by a fixed panel, and the central inverter has higher losses compared to the string inverter. Finally, the reduction in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions was calculated. The analysis was conducted using PVsyst.