An experimental system for measuring the PV panel characteristics curves under real operation conditions

Abstract

This paper presents an electronic system for testing photovoltaic (PV) modules by tracing their I-V and P-V characteristics in real meteorological test conditions. It consists of an electronic fast varying load based on power MOSFETs controlled by means of a sweeping gate-source voltage, and an appropriate computer-based instrumentation system for the characterization of the PV panels energy conversion. The developed electronic circuit has the advantages of low cost and simplicity. Experimental results obtained with the designed electronic circuit are presented.