Design, development and performance analysis of FSPV system for powering sustainable energy based mini micro-grid

The Floating Solar Photovoltaic System (FSPV) is emerging as a favorable technology to policymakers for economically harvesting renewable energy. The implementation of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) systems is often disrupted due to the unavailability of land. The FSPV systems, where the PV modules are floated in water bodies facilitate optimal utilization of water resources and land assets. The FSPV provides higher power output compared to land-based PV systems of the equal area because of improved energy conversion efficiency at a lower temperature. Another opportunity for the FSPV system is integration with hydropower stations, storage systems, and the electric grid. This paper explores the flood duration curve-based optimal sizing of the FSPV System with the objective of electrification of rural micro-grid. A comparison of energy output and module temperature rise has been made for the FSPV system and its equivalent land-based PV system of equal area. The system generates 18.08 GWh, which is 10.04% more than the land-based PV system. The DC Capacity factor is 17.2%. The Demand Supply Factor (DSF) for a particular day in winter, spring, summer, and monsoon is 37.55%, 41.7%, 45.9%, and 25% respectively. The results indicate that the FSPV system is a sustainable alternative to power renewable energy-based mini micro-grid and provide cost effective electricity to all.