A methodology to obtain the equations for the calculation of the weighted average efficiency applied to photovoltaic systems

Abstract

This paper analyzes the solar radiation profile of some Brazilian cities and shows a methodology to obtain the equations for the calculation of the weighted average efficiency, aiming to allow efficiency maximization designs for the electrical energy processing in photovoltaic systems. By means of data obtained in climatic stations that are members of the National Organization of Environmental Data System (SONDA) network, of the National Institute of Spatial Research (INPE), the electrical generation capacity of these stations is shown, and is verified that 70% of the processed energy lies in the range of 25% to 50 % of the nominal power of converter modules. The analysis presented in this paper has a major importance for the optimized design of power converters, and shows a strong dependence of the site location for the energy generation system.