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Project

Electrical System Architectures for Building-Integrated PV. Multi-scale, Multi-domain Modeling and Simulation

As we are shifting to more sustainable, cleaner and distributed energy systems, building-integrated photovoltaics may be one of the key technologies to help us achieve that. Particularly high rise buildings, may use this technology to cover their energy needs or be a positive net prosumer. In the field of building energy simulations, the modeling and simulation of buildings is mostly focused on the building-physical and thermal aspects, even when electrical generation and storage are incorporated. This doctoral thesis is focused on the electrical system architecture aspects related to building integrated PV systems. The thesis addresses a number of aspects related to the electrical system that need to be tackled in order to enable an efficient integration.

The thesis contributes to a broader modeling and simulation framework for building-integrated PV. The models of this framework are developed in Modelica, a multi-physics, object-oriented modeling language that can accurately reflect the multi-domain nature of integrated PV. The models and simulations described in the manuscript can be used by a number of stakeholders that are involved in the design of such systems, for example, electrical and building engineers. The models and simulations can also be used by power electronic designers interested in the converters performance under certain operating conditions, such as when integrated into an integrated-PV frame.

Another contribution of this thesis is the provision of guidelines regarding the integrated PV systems electrical design. Such design guidelines include the following considerations: integration of power converter into integrated PV modules, nanogrid distribution (DC vs AC and voltage level), sizing of electrical components (converters, inverters, etc.) and finally, sizing of battery system. 

Date:19 Sep 2015 →  27 Oct 2020
Keywords:Building Integrated Photovoltaics, Optimal layout, Optimal configuration, System design
Disciplines:Modelling, Multimedia processing, Mechanics, Mechatronics and robotics
Project type:PhD project