Fault detection algorithm for multiple GCPV array configurations

In this paper, a fault detection algorithm for multiple grid-connected photovoltaic (GCPV) array configurations is introduced. For a given set of conditions such as solar irradiance and photovoltaic module temperature, a number of attributes such as power, voltage and current are calculated using a mathematical simulation model. Virtual instrumentation (VI) LabVIEW software is used to monitor the performance of the GCPV system and to simulate the theoretical I-V and P-V curves of the examined system. The fault detection algorithm is evaluated on multiple GCPV array configurations such as series, parallel and series-parallel array configuration. The fault detection algorithm has been validated using 1.98 kWp GCPV system installed at the University of Huddersfield. The results indicates that the algorithm is capable to detect multiple faults in the examined GCPV plant and can therefore be used in large GCPV installations.