PV Array Fault Detection using Radial Basis Networks

Abstract

An increase in grid-connected photovoltaic arrays creates a need for efficient and reliable fault detection. In this paper, machine learning strategies for fault detection are presented. An Artificial Neural Network was studied with the goal of detecting three photovoltaic module conditions. In addition, an unsupervised approach was successfully implemented using the -means clustering algorithm, successfully detecting arc and ground faults. To distinguish and localize additional faults such as shading and soiling, a supervised approach is adopted using a Radial Basis Function Network. A solar array dataset with voltage, current, temperature, and irradiance was examined. This dataset had labeled data with normal conditions and faults due to soiling and shading. A radial basis network was trained to classify faults, resulting in an error rate below 2% on synthetic data with realistic levels of noise.