Energy optimization of solar panels using intelligent controls

The goal of the project is to build intelligent control into photovoltaic (PV) panels to allow for an automatic evaluation of the panel performance in order to bypass panels or section of panels e.g. in case of partial shadows. This will increase the system performance with up to 20% with a price increase of only 5%. At the same time, solutions to two steadily increasing barrriers for application of building integrated PV-systems will be developed and tested: Electrical shock hazard in case of fire and the increasing problem with theft of PV-panels both at the building site and even after being installed. The project will draw on the competencies of DTU Electrical Engineering.

Timetable: Project management (WP1) and criteria and concept development (WP2) will commence in Jnauary 2012. Criteria and concept development is expected to last six months after which the technology selection and development (WP3) can begin. This will be done in December 2012 and the rest of the project period will be devoted assembly and demonstration of prototype 1 and 2.

Status: The initial work will begin in January 2012.

Use of results: The end product will be introduced on the market once fully tested and demonstrated.