Optimization of photovoltaic systems applying linear programming

Abstract

This paper shows a methodology to determine the optimal number of photovoltaic panels, batteries and inverters of an autonomous photovoltaic system to meet the electrical demand of a residence at the lowest total life cycle cost possible, an economic objective function that includes the initial costs of capital, replacement, operation and maintenance of the system components. The case study consists of the electrification of a rural house located in the State of Veracruz, Mexico. The problem was solved through the development of a linear programming model in MATLAB, considering that the state of charge of the battery bank must be kept at adequate levels to the preservation of its useful life.