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Software for simulation of photovoltaic (PV) systems is widely used for dimensioning and forecasting electrical production. A factor of losses in PV installations is the partial shading caused by surrounding elements, and these software allow the user to estimate this effect. However, the accuracy of these simulated results for shaded PV systems is not widely studied. The purpose of this article is to investigate the accuracy and quantify the differences between simulated and measured data of partially shaded PV systems, obtained with the widely used tools SAM and PVSyst. Measured data from a PV installation were compared to results from simulations performed using the different shading calculation options available in both tools. The simulated outputs were both underestimated and overestimated in the shading situations. This variation was related to the use of an hourly fraction of shading and, in the case of SAM, due to the limitations of the 3D tools available for representation. Another source of differences between simulated and measured values was the use of uniform shading factors for diffuse and albedo. In addition, the simplification of the 3D model had a significant impact on the predicted energy, mainly on cloudy days. Both software overestimated the electricity production for the entire measurement period, reaching differences between the predicted and the measured energy varying from 9% to 24%. Shaded PV systems must be carefully analyzed, and the simulated results may differ from the measured values, which may even influence the decision on the feasibility of an installation.

Five-parameter single diode models are the most used for photovoltaic modeling, and although they usually apply the same basic equation, there are several variations in terms of parameter dependences on irradiance and temperature. Different methods with variations on the resistances’ values with the temperature or irradiance have been proposed, and there is also discussion on the treatment of the dark reverse saturation current with the temperature level. On experimental works, there is even more controversy. Several authors reach distinct conclusions about the behavior of almost every parameter of the single diode model when extracting them at each irradiance or temperature levels. For instance, in accordance to different publications, series resistance may either increase, decrease or remain constant under irradiance variations. In this paper, we review previous studies and their proposals, discussing also the possible influence of the extraction method on these results. Later, two experiments are performed in a solar simulator to extract all the parameters on a broad range of irradiance and temperature levels with an analytical extraction method for crystalline silicon modules. The results show that the thermal coefficient used to correct the open-circuit voltage for different temperatures may depend on the irradiance level, a finding that is not present in the single diode models found in the literature. The most common approaches for the diode ideality factor and the diode reverse current, constant ideality factor and a temperature variation for reverse saturation current are seen to fit with the experimental data, while the parasitic resistances both presented a significant increase for low irradiance levels and no significant dependence on the temperature. These experimental findings, reached using a set of 27 commercial PV modules, may help improve the development of methods for solving the single-diode model and improving its accuracy at different operating conditions.

Frequently, PV systems are affected by dirt, dust or shadowing from surrounding elements, such as trees and buildings. The shadows can cause partial shading conditions, when the irradiance is not uniform on PV installation, which lead to losses of power. Thus, the shadow prediction is primordial for a better output power estimation and to minimize its losses. The aim of this article is to propose a methodology using intuitive and available tools for shading prediction and losses assessment on PV installations. A study about the shadow pattern and module orientation (portrait and landscape) influence and an analysis of the shading losses on a PV plant were performed in order to demonstrate the applicability of the methodology. The shading effect is drastic when the shading is parallel to the short edge, whereas the effect is lower when it is parallel to the long edge. On the other hand, the losses due to shading and the difference in the position of the modules (landscape or portrait) have a lower impact on the photovoltaic plant case. It was concluded that the methodology is feasible and applicable for shading impact evaluation, despite limitations for large systems due to the simulation time.

Es una realidad que el consumo mundial de electricidad va en aumento cada día, sin embargo, en la actualidad, una cantidad considerable de personas aún no tiene acceso a este servicio, afectando directamente su calidad de vida hasta el punto de limitar su desarrollo económico y social. Esto impulsa la implementación de tecnologías y uso de fuentes renovables que permitan el mejoramiento de estas condiciones y que garanticen a todas las personas el acceso a la energía eléctrica. Este proyecto propone el diseño de un sistema fotovoltaico sostenible acompañado de un plan de formación educativa para el corregimiento de Tasajera de tal manera que se suplan sus necesidades energéticas básicas insatisfechas. Para ello se llevo a cabo un estudio muestral para determinar el número de hogares que cobijará el proyecto, un diagnostico energético con el fin de determinar la cantidad de energía que se debe suministrar, el dimensionamiento del sistema para determinar la cantidad y capacidad de los componentes que lo conforman, además de estudios económicos y sociales para evaluar las diferentes opciones y determinar el sistema fotovoltaico adecuado para proveer de autosuficiencia eléctrica a la población objetivo. Se obtuvo que el sistema será implementado en 286 hogares del Corregimiento y que proporciona 570 Wp, lo suficiente para suplir la demanda eléctrica de un hogar promedio en Tasajera sin necesidad de estar conectado a la red de interconexión. It is undeniable that electricity consumption is increasing by the day. So much so that there is a considerable amount of people who are greatly affected due to the lack of electric services. Not only is their quality of life impacted, but in turn, so is their economic and social development. This leads to the implementation of new technologies and the use of renewable energy sources which would allow everyone to have access to electric energy, solving many of the presented issues. This project proposes the design of a sustainable photovoltaic system that will improve and cover Tasajera’s basic energetic needs. To do this, a sample study was carried out to determine the number of homes that the project will house, an energy diagnosis in order to determine the amount of energy to be supplied, and the sizing of the system to determine the quantity and capacity of the components that make it up. In addition, economic and social studies were investigated to evaluate the different options and determine the appropriate photovoltaic system for the target population. It was found that the system will be implemented in 286 homes and that it provides 570 Wp, enough to supply the electricity demand of an average home in Tasajera without having to be connected to the interconnection network.

Photovoltaic systems (PVs), in their usual condition, are controlled to track the maximum power point (MPP) in a natural solar dynamic. However, with the cheapness of solar energy and its integration with the most diverse areas of cities, the PV system will increasingly be subjected to solar dynamics with multiple changes, such as, for example, the integration of PV systems on solar highways. Such dynamics, resulting from vehicle shading, cause extra effort for static converters designed to search for PMP. In this scenario, this work addresses the study of the speed of natural solar dynamics and with multiple changes applied to PV systems, develops metrics for comparative performance evaluation of the global efficiency of the maximum power point tracker (MPPT) applied to natural solar dynamics, verifies the need for fast cascade control for a dual-stage converter for application in natural solar dynamics and with multiple changes, and contributes to the improvement of cascade control techniques for dual-stage PV systems based on virtual resistance, where the control law consists of an internal current loop and an external voltage loop. Os sistemas fotovoltaicos (FVs), em sua condição usual, são controlados para rastrear o ponto de máxima potência (PMP) em uma dinâmica solar natural. Contudo, com o barateamento da energia solar e a integração dela com as mais diversas áreas das cidades, cada vez mais o sistema FV será submetido a dinâmicas solares com múltiplas mudanças, como, por exemplo, a integração de sistemas FVs em rodovias solares. Tais dinâmicas, resultantes de sombreamento de veículos, acarretam esforço extra para os conversores estáticos projetados para buscar o PMP. Nesse cenário, esse trabalho aborda o estudo da velocidade da dinâmica solar natural e com múltiplas mudanças aplicado a sistemas FVs, desenvolve métricas para avaliação comparativa de desempenho da eficiência global do seguimento do ponto de máxima potência (SPMP) aplicadas à dinâmica solar natural, verifica a necessidade de um controle cascata rápido para um conversor de duplo estágio para aplicação em dinâmica solar natural e com múltiplas mudanças, e contribui com o aprimoramento das técnicas de controle em cascata para sistemas FVs de duplo estágio baseada na resistência virtual, onde a lei de controle é composta por uma malha interna de corrente e uma malha externa de tensão.

This work aims to develop a methodology to perform the active demand side management for households in smart grids, which contain distributed solar photovoltaic generation and energy storage. Such methodology outcomes a decision-making system that manages the battery aiming to reduce the consumer electricity cost. It also contributes to postpone the investments in expansion of the electricity grid if the higher loading period coincides with the higher electricity tariff of the day. The decision-making system is a validated neural network, trained with optimized data, which can be used in any household meeting certain conditions – specific location and electricity tariff, and consumption profile like to the standard verified by the local electricity utility. To validate this methodology, it was created three consumption and three solar generation profiles, which were combined to each other. The results show that the ANN-based decision-making system operates the battery efficiently to achieve the minimum electricity bill.

Resumen La degradación de los paneles solares en un sistema fotovoltaico (PV ) compromete la generación eléctrica del sistema a través del tiempo. Dentro de las técnicas para monitorear el estado de los paneles PV se encuentran la termo- grafía, las comparaciones de valores de potencia y el análisis de las curvas de potencia y voltaje (P-V) de los paneles de los arreglos siempre operando a condiciones de radiación solar uniformes, sin embargo, un estudio para arreglos PV no ha sido realizado. En este artículo se describe el análisis de diferentes niveles de degradación en un arreglo PV que se encuentra sometido bajo condiciones de sombreado parcial, basándose en las distorsiones de las curvas P-V del arreglo. Por medio de simulaciones en Matlab utilizando el modelo de un solo diodo (SDM), se realizan diferentes cambios en los niveles de degradación en arreglos PV de diferentes dimensiones con perfiles de radiación definidos previamente. Abstract The degradation of solar panels in a photovoltaic (PV ) system compromises the electrical generation of the system over time. Techniques for monitoring the condition of PV panels include thermography, comparisons in the power value and analysis of the power and voltage (P-V ) curves of the panels in the array, always operating at uniform solar radiation conditions; however, it has not been considered a study for PV arrays. This article describes the analysis of different levels of degradation in a PV array under partial shading conditions, based on the distortions of the P-V array curves. Employing Matlab simulations and using the single diode model (SDM), different changes in degradation levels are made in PV arrays of different dimensions with previously defined radiation profiles. Resumo A degradação dos painéis solares num sistema fotovoltaico (PV ) compromete a geração elétrica do sistema ao longo do tempo. As técnicas de monitorização do estado dos painéis fotovoltaicos incluem a termografia, a comparação de valores de potência e a análise das curvas de potência e tensão (P-V ) dos painéis de matriz sempre a funcionar em condições uniformes de radiação solar; no entanto, não foi realizado um estudo sobre matrizes fotovoltaicas. Este artigo descreve a análise de diferentes níveis de degradação em um vetor PV sob condições de sombreamento parcial, com base nas distorções das curvas P-V do vetor. Por meio de simulações Matlab utilizando o modelo de diodo único (SDM), diferentes mudanças nos níveis de degradação são feitas em matrizes fotovoltaicas de diferentes dimensões com perfis de radiação previamente definidos.

There are five main institutions that develop research and provide data regarding photovoltaic energy generation in Brazil, they are: Brazilian Electricity Regulatory Agency (ANEEL); Energy Research Office (EPE); International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA); Institute for the Development of Alternative Energies in Latin America (IDEAL); and Greener (a research and consultancy company specialized in the photovoltaic solar energy sector). The reports provided by these institutions present a large volume of data and information, this factor makes hard task of understanding the Brazilian photovoltaic market. Therefore, this paper purposes to present an overview about the development of photovoltaic generation in Brazil, through of an unpublished compilation and analysis of the data provided by the institutions previously cited. For this, initially the factors that contributed to the implementation and expansion of this sector are presented. Following, it is presented the main resolutions for the implementation of distributed generation, as well as organizations responsible for the standardization, operation, testing and expected requirements for connection of renewable sources in the electrical system. Quantitative data about energy installed, number of installations approvals, distribution of installations by sector of society, number homologations by power range and cost distribution for the implementation of these systems are provided. Finally, the incentive policies, credit lines and future perspectives for the development of the photovoltaic sector in Brazil are presented.

Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy production option and can be applied to pumping water. Pumping water with photovoltaic solar energy is one of the technologies that has stood out in the country. In this context, the work aimed to evaluate the different methods of a drip irrigation system as a function of the use of an indoor amorphous photovoltaic pumping system, without electrical energy storage. The study was installed at the State University of Western Paraná. Voltage and current data were generated by the photovoltaic panels; solar irradiation was measured by the pyranometer device; the water pump flow rate was determined using the flow meter and in-line drip tube types. Irrigation performance was determined by the water distribution uniformity coefficients (CUD) and Christiansen’s uniformity coefficient (CUC). Tests were performed on open and partially cloudy days. The experiment totaled 40 sampled data, half being collected on sunny days and the other half on partially cloudy days, at 9:45 am; 11:00 am; 1:30 pm and 3:00 pm. The methodology had the greatest influence on the CUD value. For the CUC parameter, the values were approximately 89% for the studied methods. Values remained under control for the Shewhart graph, but with the process capacity index affected. La energía solar es una opción de producción de energía limpia y renovable y se puede aplicar al bombeo de agua. El bombeo de agua con energía solar fotovoltaica es una de las tecnologías que se ha destacado en el país. En este contexto, el trabajo tuvo como objetivo evaluar los diferentes métodos de un sistema de riego por goteo en función del uso de un sistema de bombeo interior amorfo fotovoltaico, sin almacenamiento de energía eléctrica. El estudio se instaló en la Universidad Estatal del Oeste de Paraná. Los datos de voltaje y corriente fueron generados por los paneles fotovoltaicos; la irradiación solar se midió mediante el dispositivo de piranómetro; el caudal de la bomba de agua se determinó utilizando el medidor de flujo y los tipos de tubo de goteo en línea. El rendimiento del riego se determinó mediante los coeficientes de uniformidad de distribución del agua (CUD) y el coeficiente de uniformidad de Christiansen (CUC). Las pruebas se realizaron en días abiertos y parcialmente nublados. El experimento totalizó 40 datos muestreados, la mitad recolectados en días soleados y la otra mitad en días parcialmente nublados, a las 9:45 am; 11 a.m; 1:30 pm y 3:00 pm. La metodología tuvo la mayor influencia en el valor CUD. Para el parámetro CUC, los valores fueron aproximadamente del 89% para los métodos estudiados. Los valores permanecieron bajo control para la parcela de Shewhart, pero con el índice de capacidad del proceso afectado. A energia solar é uma opção limpa e renovável de produção de energia e pode ser aplicada no bombeamento de água. O bombeamento de água com energia solar fotovoltaica é uma das tecnologias que tem se destacado no país. Neste contexto, o trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar os diferentes métodos de um sistema de irrigação por gotejamento em função da utilização de um sistema de bombeamento fotovoltaico amorfo indoor, sem armazenamento de energia elétrica. O estudo foi instalado na Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná. Os dados da tensão e corrente elétrica foram gerados pelos painéis fotovoltaicos; a irradiação solar foi medida pelo aparelho piranômetro; a vazão da bomba d'água foi determinada usando o medidor de vazão e os tipos de tubos de gotejamento em linha. O desempenho da irrigação foi determinado pelos coeficientes de uniformidade de distribuição de água (CUD) e pelo coeficiente de uniformidade de Christiansen (CUC). Os testes foram realizados em dias de céu abertos e parcialmente nublados. O experimento totalizou 40 dados amostrados, sendo metade coletados em dias ensolarados e a outra metade em dias parcialmente nublados, às 9h45; 11h00; 13h30 e 15h00. A metodologia apresentou maior influência no valor do CUD. Para o parâmetro CUC, os valores foram de aproximadamente 89% para os métodos estudados. Os valores permaneceram sob controle para o gráfico de Shewhart, mas com o índice de capacidade do processo afetado.

Este trabalho tem o intuito avaliar a efetiva geração de energia elétrica de um Sistema Fotovoltaico Conectado à Rede (SFCR), enquadrado na modalidade de Geração Distribuída, pelo período de um ano, e compará-la com resultados de simulação em PVSyst, além de avaliar dados climáticos de estação meteorológica local e compará-los com a base de dados de irradiação utilizada para simulação, assim como realizar uma avaliação do retorno financeiro do projeto nas principais distribuidoras de energia elétrica do Rio Grande do Sul (RS) e estimar o impacto ambiental da geração de energia do SFCR em termos da redução na emissão de dióxido de carbono. O SFCR, de 40,32 kWp, está instalado na cidade de Arroio do Meio, situada em uma região com alta concentração de instalações fotovoltaicas no RS. Em 2018, o SFCR entregou 54.811 kWh de energia elétrica, com Produtividade anual de 1.359 kWh/kWp, Rendimento Global do Sistema de 86,78% e Fator de Capacidade de 15,52%. Identifica-se que os resultados de simulação para a entrega de energia ficaram 15% acima do que o SFCR efetivamente produziu em 2018, o que ocorre, principalmente, em função da Irradiação Global Horizontal medida de 2018 ser 13% inferior à irradiação utilizada pelo PVSyst, através de seu banco de dados Meteonorm 7.1. Portanto, assume-se que 2018 não correspondeu a um ano típico de irradiação solar. Por outro lado, o SFCR entregou em 2018 um Rendimento Global do Sistema de 86,78%, superior ao estimado em simulação, de 85,12%, sendo este um indicativo de uma instalação bem realizada. Ainda, verifica-se que o investimento em um SFCR, nas características desse projeto, é atrativo financeiramente para as três principais distribuidoras de energia do RS. The objectives of this work are to evaluate the effective electricity generation of a grid connected photovoltaic system (SFCR), in a Distributed Generation contract, for a period of one year, and to compare it with PVSyst simulation results, besides evaluating climate data from a local weather station and compare them with the irradiation database used for simulation, as well as evaluate the financial return of the project at the main electricity distributors in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) and estimate the environmental impact of SFCR's energy generation in terms of the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. The SFCR, 40.32 kWp, is installed in the city of Arroio do Meio, located in a region with high concentration of photovoltaic installations in RS. In 2018, the SFCR delivered 54,811 kWh of electricity, with annual Productivity of 1,359 kWh/kWp, Performance Ratio of 86.78% and Capacity Factor of 15.52%. It is identified that the simulation results for energy delivery were 15% higher than the SFCR actually produced in 2018, which is mainly due to the Global Horizontal Irradiation measure of 2018 being 13% lower than the irradiation used by PVSyst, through its Meteonorm 7.1 database. Therefore, it is assumed that 2018 did not correspond to a typical year of solar irradiation. On the other hand, the SFCR delivered in 2018 a Performance Ration of 86.78%, higher than the estimated in simulation, of 85.12%, which is indicative of a well-executed installation. Also, it is verified that the investment in a SFCR, following the characteristics of this project, is financially attractive to the three main distributors of energy of the RS.

Estima-se um crescimento significativo na integração de fontes alternativas de energia e no aumento de cargas não lineares nas redes de distribuição de baixa tensão como, por exemplo, a geração fotovoltaica e a instalação de carregadores de veículos elétricos. Tais equipamentos necessitam de conversores eletrônicos para viabilizar sua conexão na rede e causam, portanto, distorção harmônica. Este trabalho propõe analisar a distorção harmônica causada por esses elementos por meio de simulações diárias, utilizando o OpenDSS, considerando cenários nos quais os equipamentos operam em condições distintas. É implementada uma metodologia de simulações que calcula os índices de distorção harmônica ao longo das 24h do dia para identificar os intervalos que apresentam variação e o que a motiva. De forma complementar, são calculados os índices regulamentados pelo PRODIST, que define os limites que não podem ser ultrapassados em mais de 5% das medições em uma semana. Constata-se que um alto nível de penetração de sistemas fotovoltaicos e carregadores de veículos elétricos causaria problemas de subtensão atingindo valores na faixa de tensão precária antes de serem verificados altos níveis de distorção harmônica. O deslocamento da recarga de veículos elétricos do horário de ponta para um período com menor carga apresenta melhoras tanto na tensão como nos índices de distorção. Nos cenários simulados não foram verificadas elevações alarmantes de distorção harmônica; portanto, esse indicador não seria um fator limitante na instalação dos equipamentos. Verifica-se, também, que a distorção harmônica depende fortemente dos ângulos de fase das componentes harmônicas individuais, pois isso define como os diferentes equipamentos irão interagir e isso pode aumentar ou reduzir a distorção total de tensão. Significant growth is expected for the integration of alternative sources of energy and nonlinear loads in low voltage distribution networks, e.g. photovoltaic generation and the installation of electric vehicle chargers. Such equipment requires electronic converters to enable their connection to the network, thus cause harmonic distortion. This paper proposes to analyse the harmonic distortion caused by these elements through daily simulations, using OpenDSS, in scenarios with the equipment operating under different conditions. A simulation methodology is implemented for calculating the harmonic distortion indices over 24h periods to identify daily time intervals that present variation and what is it driven by. In addition, the indices regulated by PRODIST are calculated. PRODIST defines the limits that cannot be exceeded in more than 5 % of the measurements made in one week. It is found that a significant insertion of photovoltaic systems and electric vehicle chargers would cause undervoltage problems before high levels of harmonic distortion are reached. Shifting the recharge of electric vehicles from the end of the day to a period with lower demand improves both voltage levels and distortion rates. In simulated scenarios no alarming elevations of harmonic distortion were observed; therefore, this indicator would not be a limiting factor in equipment installation. It is also verified that the harmonic flow strongly depends on the phase angles of the individual harmonic components, showing how the different equipment will interact, eventually increasing or reducing the voltage total harmonic distortion.

We propose a methodology for conducting simulations of operational scenarios for energy projects based on photovoltaic generation systems. It considers several documented facts about time series of weather, such as strong seasonality and structural breaks, which the previous literature has not explored in depth. Our proposal uses public weather time series, which are usually recorded by meteorological observatories. This makes our approach a suitable strategy for any firm interested in applying it to its own data and projects. This approach also allows the user to set an appropriate level of confidence for the scenarios depending on her interests. Resumen Se propone una metodología para realizar simulaciones de escenarios de operación de sistemas solares fotovoltaicos. Esta aproximación tiene en cuenta características documentadas de las variables climáticas, como su estacionalidad y la presencia de quiebres estructurales, las cuales no han sido exploradas anteriormente con profundidad. La propuesta usa series de tiempo de datos de diferentes variables climáticas, las cuales son normalmente recolectadas por estaciones meteorológicas; esto le da utilidad a nuestra propuesta, ya que cualquier firma interesada pueda aplicar nuestro planteamiento a sus propios datos y proyectos. Este enfoque también les permite a los usuarios establecer un nivel de confianza adecuado para los escenarios de operación en los cuales se tenga interés.

The insertion of photovoltaic solar energy has increased considerably over the past few years, with remarkable growth since 2005. It is essential that the electrical energy delivered by the photovoltaic system to the grid has an acceptable quality level. This paper presents test results of power factor and harmonic distortion content in grid connected inverters for photovoltaic systems. Several tests of ten commercially available inverter models from three different manufacturers were performed at the Laboratory of Solar Energy (Labsol) at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), using a test bench with a power analyzer. The power factor and total harmonic distortion in current curves were mathematically modeled as a function of relative power in order to be used in computer simulation of photovoltaic systems. For power loads close to the nominal values, the harmonic content was found to be low and in accordance with the standard requirements. Nevertheless, at low loading levels the inverters may inject high levels of harmonics into the grid.

[ES] En este trabajo se presenta un nuevo esquema de control para un sistema fotovoltaico aislado (PV) utilizando un controlador de lógica borrosa (FLC). El sistema de control diseñado proporciona un buen seguimiento de la tensión de referencia óptima, a la cual se genera la máxima potencia. El sistema fotovoltaico está conectado a una carga a través de un convertidor CC/CC elevador (boost). El controlador FLC proporciona el ciclo de trabajo (D) apropiado al convertidor CC/CC para que el sistema PV genere la máxima potencia. También se propone un método de análisis de la estabilidad del sistema en lazo cerrado. Aunque el análisis de la estabilidad está basado en la metodología de Lyapunov, es un análisis semicualitativo, ya que no se dispone de un modelo del sistema en lazo cerrado para realizar un análisis analítico. Tanto los resultados de simulación como las pruebas experimentales sobre un sistema PV comercial muestran que el FLC proporciona un buen seguimiento del punto de máxima potencia (MPP). Finalmente, se ha evaluado el funcionamiento del FLC sobre un sistema PV real formado por unas placas fotovoltaicas comerciales Atersa modelo A55. Para realizar las pruebas experimentales se ha implementado la estrategia de control sobre un procesador digital de señal DS1104 de dSPACE. Los resultados experimentales obtenidos demuestran la validez del esquema de control FLC sobre un sistema fotovoltaico comercial., [EN] This paper presents a new control scheme for a standalone photovoltaic (PV) system based on a fuzzy-logic (FLC). The proposed control system provides good tracking for the optimal reference voltage, at which the maximum power generation is obtained. The photovoltaic system is connected to a load through a DC/DC boost converter. The FLC controller provides the appropriate duty cycle (D) to the DC/DC converter in order to get the maximum power from the PV system. A method for the stability analysis of the closed-loop system is also proposed. The stability analysis is based on the Lyapunov methods and is a semi-qualitative analysis because there is no closed loop system model available for the analytical analysis. Both simulation results and experimental tests on a real PV system show that the FLC provides good tracking for the maximum power point (MPP).Finally, the performance of the FLC on a real PV system consisting of a commercial solar panels Atersa model A55 is analyzed. To perform the experimental tests the proposed control strategy has been implemented on the dSPACE digital signal processor model DS1104. The experimental results demonstrate the good performance of the proposed FLC control scheme over a commercial photovoltaic system., Este trabajo ha sido realizado parcialmente gracias al apoyo de la Universidad del País Vasco (GIU13/41 y UFI11/07) y al proyecto TEP-6124 financiado por la Junta de Andalucía

[ES] Durante los últimos años, los vehículos eléctricos e híbridos eléctricos (VE y VHE) han estado en pleno auge en la industria del automóvil. Han evolucionado mucho haciendo que la vida de las personas sea más fácil y también son la solución para hacer frente al calentamiento global debido a las reducciones de emisiones de CO2, la contaminación local y, en consecuencia, la contaminación acústica creando un medio ambiente más limpio y verde. Aunque científicos, investigadores e ingenieros han desarrollado muchas tecnologías para mejorar los vehículos convencionales mediante la fabricación de vehículos eléctricos e híbridos, todavía siguen buscando nuevas soluciones para mejorar su rendimiento. Estas nuevas mejoras han hecho que la gente sea más consciente en comprar este tipo de vehículos en vez de los vehículos con motor de combustión interna. Esto también es debido a su eficiencia, fiabilidad, su menor consumo y, por supuesto, porque contribuyen con el medio ambiente. Este proyecto permite al lector, ya sea especializado o no en el tema, tener una visión global del funcionamiento del vehículo eléctrico, sus componentes, sus ventajas e inconvenientes y, por último, también facilita la comprensión del funcionamiento de las nuevas tecnologías aplicadas al vehículo eléctrico como V2G (Vehículo a la red), V2B (Vehículo al edificio) y VTH (Vehículo a la vivienda). Además, en el proyecto se explica en detalle el uso de los diferentes sistemas de almacenamiento de energía para el vehículo eléctrico como son las baterías, los supercondensadores y las pilas de combustible, así como el funcionamiento de cada uno de ellos y las ventajas y desventajas entre ellos. Además, la modelización de los sistemas de almacenamiento de energía anteriormente mencionados también se muestra en el documento. Después de esto, algunas simulaciones de los sistemas de almacenamiento de energía se representan en PSIM. Por último, sugerimos una aplicación para el Vehículo eléctrico que consiste en aumentar el número de sistemas de almacenamiento de energía con el fin de mejorar su eficiencia durante la conducción, por lo que proponemos un sistema híbrido de almacenamiento de energía para el VE. Además, se explica cómo la energía almacenada en estos dispositivos podría inyectarse en la red eléctrica para proporcionar más energía mientras el coche no se está utilizando. Por último, cabe remarcar que este proyecto tiene un doble propósito: por un lado, avanzar en los campos de trabajo que serán la base del futuro, como la investigación, y por otro, tiene un propósito didáctico, mostrando a los lectores y futuros estudiantes los desarrollos en las nuevas tecnologías que se aplican al vehículo eléctrico., [EN] Over the last few years Electric and Hybrid Electric vehicles (EVs and HEVs) have been in full apogee in the automotive industry. They have evolved a lot making people s life easier and also as a solution to deal with global warming due to the reduction of CO2 emissions, the local pollution and consequently, the noise pollution making a cleaner and greener environment. Although scientists, researches and engineers have developed a lot of technologies to improve the conventional vehicles by making Electric and Hybrid vehicles, they are still searching new solutions to improve their performance. These new improvements have made people more aware about buying this type of cars instead of the Internal combustion engine ones due to their efficiency, reliability, lower consumption and of course, because they are environmentally friendly. This project allows the reader, whether specialized or not in the subject, to have a global vision of the operation of the electric vehicle, their components, their advantages and disadvantages and finally, it also facilitates the reader to understand the operation of the new technologies applied to the electric vehicle such as V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid), V2B (Vehicle-to-Building) and VTH (Vehicle-to-Home). In addition, the project explains in detail the use of the different energy storage systems in the electric vehicle such as batteries, supercapacitors and fuel cells, as well as the operation of each one of them and the advantages and disadvantages between them. Moreover, the modelling of these energy storage systems is also shown in the paper. After that, some simulations of the energy storage systems are represented in PSIM. Finally, we suggest an application for the EV which consist in increase the number of energy storage systems in order to improve its efficiency while driving, so we propose a hybrid energy storage system for the EV. Moreover, an explanation about how the energy stored into these devices could be injected into the electrical grid for provide more energy while the car is not being used is given. Furthermore, this project has a double purpose: on one hand, to advance in the fields of work that will be the basis of the future, such as research, and on the other, it has a didactic purpose, demonstrating the readers and future students the developments in the new technologies that are applied to electric vehicles.

Submitted by FRANCISCO SÉRGIO DOS SANTOS null (fsergio.santos@gmail.com) on 2017-06-23T13:10:13Z No. of bitstreams: 1 TESE_FRANCISCO_SERGIO_DOS_SANTOS.pdf: 6603447 bytes, checksum: a50e5f7ef38c8d0f9877a04d8d72b92e (MD5) Approved for entry into archive by Luiz Galeffi (luizgaleffi@gmail.com) on 2017-06-23T17:33:38Z (GMT) No. of bitstreams: 1 santos_fs_dr_bot.pdf: 6603447 bytes, checksum: a50e5f7ef38c8d0f9877a04d8d72b92e (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2017-06-23T17:33:38Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 santos_fs_dr_bot.pdf: 6603447 bytes, checksum: a50e5f7ef38c8d0f9877a04d8d72b92e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2017-05-19 Rede de computadores são elementos fundamentais no processo de comunicação. Esses componentes exigem o acompanhamento constante de suas tarefas e são administrados por sistemas de informações que coletam os dados diariamente, para orientar os analistas de suporte na correção das falhas na infraestrutura e a ferramenta utilizada na gestão de recursos de rede de computadores é o protocolo SNMP. As infraestruturas de geração de energia elétrica também são elementos complexos e necessitam de acompanhamento. São utilizados sistemas de informação que disponibilizam dados para os usuários e responsáveis técnicos para avaliarem o funcionamento e corrigir as possíveis falhas. As redes de computadores e os sistemas de geração distribuídas estão convergindo para o ambiente do usuário, e as ferramentas de gestão são importantes são mecanismos na gestão da produção e consumo de energia elétrica. Assim, este trabalho tem como objetivo desenvolver um sistema de monitoramento on line para sistema de microgeração fotovoltaica utilizando o protocolo de rede de computadores Single Network Management Protocol (SNMP) para realizar a interface de comunicação com as variáveis de medições elétricas e meteorológicas. O desenvolvimento do projeto compõe dois componentes: hardware e software. O software é composto de dois módulos um para ser utilizado na Web, aplicações Desktop para uso em computadores que suportem sistemas operacionais como o Windows, Linux ou Mac e em dispositivos móveis. As funcionalidades programadas são cadastros das informações para o funcionamento do sistema, relatórios e gráficos que disponibilizam as informações ordenadas em vários níveis, diariamente, semanalmente, anualmente. Nos componentes de hardware foram utilizados cinco microcontroladores Atmel AVR, (Arduino) todos ligados à sensores e programados para a leitura de geração e consumo de energia elétrica e variáveis ambientais, como velocidade do vento, radiância solar, temperatura e níveis de chuva no período, e controle do sistema de bombeamento com duas motos bombas. Todos os experimentos foram realizados na central de microgeração distribuída fotovoltaica (MGD-PV) do Sítio Modelo da fazenda Lageado e no Laboratório de Energias Renováveis do Departamento de Engenharia Rural, nas Faculdades de Ciências Agronômicas da UNESP, campus de Botucatu. O laboratório de Energias Renováveis é o Servidor do sistema e as distâncias são muito variáveis entre todos os microcontroladores, de 32 metros a 260 metros e para realizar o processo de coleta dos dados nos diversos pontos e suprir essa distância foi necessário a construção e configuração de uma infraestrutura de comunicação baseada nas tecnologias ZigBee, para conectar os cincos microcontroladores. Os dados são coletados em intervalos regulares de cinco minutos, às variáveis ambientais são acompanhadas vinte e quatro horas por dia e às variáveis de geração de energia elétrica entre sete da manhã e dezessete horas da tarde. Os dados foram coletados entre setembro de 2016 e fevereiro de 2017. Os componentes de hardware e de software apresentaram rendimentos satisfatórios no processamento das informações através da interface criada pelo protocolo SNMP na comunicação e nas transmissões dos dados gerados pelos sensores, na configuração e mapeamento os objetos para construção da MIB para serem utilizados nas medições elétricas e variáveis ambientais. Computer networks are fundamental elements in the communication process. Such components demand constant supervision of their tasks and are managed by information systems, which daily collect data to guide support analysts when correcting glitches in the infrastructure. Protocol SNMP is the tool used for managing resources of the computer network. The infrastructures of electric energy generation are also complex elements and require monitoring. Information systems are utilized, which provide data to users and technical professionals, so they can evaluate functioning and correct possible errors. Computer networks and systems of distributed generation are converging towards the user’s environment, so, management tools are important mechanisms in the control of production and consumption of electric energy. Thus, this work aims at developing an online monitoring system for photovoltaic microgeneration using the Single Network Management Protocol (SNMP) to perform the communication interface with the variables of electrical and metereological measurements. The project development is composed of two elements: hardware and software. The software consists of two modules: one to be used on the Web, Desktop apps for use in computers that can carry operational systems such as Windows, Linux or Mac and one to be used in mobile devices. Programmed functionalities include information register for the functioning of the system; reports and graphs that show information ordained in several levels, daily, weekly and annually. As to hardware, we used five microcontrolers Atmel AVR, (Arduino) connected to sensors and programmed for reading the production and consumption of electric energy as well as environmental variables, such as wind speed, solar radiance, temperature and rain levels during the period and control of the pumping system with two motor pumps. All experiments were carried out at the Distributed Photovoltaic Microgeneration Central (MGD-PV) on a Model Farm and at the Renewable Energies Laboratory of the Agronomy College at UNESP, in Botucatu. The Renewable Energies Laboratory is the server of the system and the distances among all microcontrolers vary from 32 to 260 meters. Therefore, in order to collect data from several locations and neutralize such distance, we needed to build and configure a communication infrastructure based on ZigBee technologies to connect the five microcontrolers. Data are collected during five-minute intervals; environmental variables are followed twenty four hours a day and the variables of electric energy production between 7am and 5pm. Data were collected between September 2016 and February 2017. Hardware and software components showed satisfactory performance at processing information through the interface created by the SNMP protocol regarding communication and transmission of the data generated by sensors as well as on the configuration and mapping objects for the construction of the MIB to be used in electrical measurements and environmental variables.

The amount and quality of the energy converted by a photovoltaic system connected to the grid can be evaluated by experimental monitoring or computer simulation. The Solar Energy Laboratory at UFRGS developed a simulation software for analysis of grid connected photovoltaic systems (FVCONECT). In order to perform a reliable simulation, it is required for the implementation of suitable mathematical models that describe the behavior of each system component. The inverter is the equipment responsible for converting DC to AC. The manufacturers provide some technical parameters for the inverters. However, electrical and thermal characteristics require mathematical models which coefficients must be obtained from specific tests. This work presents a methodology for analysis of thermal behavior of inverters. Such analysis requires experimental determination of two thermal coefficients. Energy losses due to inverters overheating can be calculated through the proposed methodology, providing a more accurate simulation of a determined photovoltaic (PV) system. The proposed methodology has been tested in several inverters, providing good results.

[ESP] Esta tesis doctoral se centra en la evaluación del impacto ambiental de las diferentes tecnologías fotovoltaicas, con especial énfasis en los beneficios de la sustitución de los combustibles fósiles convencionales, con la producción de electricidad limpia a partir de los sistemas fotovoltaicos. Las emisiones de CO2 se destacan como la principal razón para el cambio climático. Estilo de vida humana (transporte, industria, etc) tiene que ser cambiado con el fin de seguir las directrices de la AIE. La energía sostenible tiene un papel importante para reducir el uso de combustibles fósiles como fuente de energía. Las economías en crecimiento dependen en gran medida de los combustibles fósiles y, por tanto, el cambio de su política energética son la clave para frenar el calentamiento global. El estudio sigue una metodología detallada basada en "Life Cycle Analysis" en combinación con enfoques técnicos para supervisar las instalaciones fotovoltaicas de trabajo y por lo tanto ofrece resultados cuantitativos en términos de emisiones evitadas y el potencial de mitigación del cambio climático de la energía fotovoltaica en diferentes contextos, que van desde la construcción de la integración de los sistemas conectados a la red de electrificación de los medios de vida rurales. La producción de electricidad es responsable de 32% del consumo mundial total de combustible fósil. Con el fin de mitigar el cambio climático, varios países ya han establecido protocolos orientados a la reducción de las emisiones de efecto invernadero de gases fluorados (protocolo de Kyoto) y promovió el aumento de la contribución de las energías renovables en el mix energético. Desarrollo de las energías renovables ha sido continua creciendo a pesar de la crisis económica en los últimos años. Tecnologías eólicas y fotovoltaicas sobresalen en progreso y se consideran como una futura fuente sostenible de electricidad fiable. Esta tesis es una contribución a la mejora del rendimiento y la sostenibilidad a largo plazo de los sistemas fotovoltaicos que ofrece el uso de las herramientas informáticas y de varias metodologías que se han aplicado a diferentes estudios de casos, que van desde el seguimiento y la evaluación experimental de un sistema conectado rejilla fotovoltaica la electrificación de un medio de vida rural. Estandarizada Valoración del Ciclo de Vida (ACV) se aplica durante esta tesis para medir el impacto ambiental de un generador fotovoltaico conectado a la red 222kWp CdTe ubicado en la Universidad de Murcia. Se identificaron los beneficios ambientales de la construcción de la integración (en el techo de un estacionamiento). El monitoreo constante del sistema nos permitió obtener información real sobre su rendimiento. El período de recuperación de energía del sistema se encontró que era 2,06 años y 1,69 cuando se asume un escenario de reciclaje. Tener un factor de emisión de CO2 es de 6.33 y 5.38 gCO2/kWh gCO2/kWh respectivamente. LCA también se aplica para medir las emisiones evitadas de 1kWp de tres tecnologías fotovoltaicas: de película delgada (CdTe), tecnologías de polímeros c-silicio y orgánicos, modelando dieciséis combinaciones diferentes de ubicaciones geográficas en los módulos podrían ser fabricados y / o instalados, respectivamente. La óptima geográfica. combinación, la relación fabricante-installer, es decir, se propone una "asignación" geográfica que proporciona las emisiones de CO2 evitadas por mayor kWp de capacidad fotovoltaica instalada: África Brasil-Sudáfrica, Colombia y Sudáfrica. Brasil-Australia, Colombia, Australia, etc Por último, con el fin de decidir qué tecnología de energía puede suministrar electricidad a las zonas rurales aisladas de países en desarrollo, un software de decisión multicriterio existente (SUREDSS) que tiene en cuenta los impactos sobre el medio ambiente, financiero , los activos físicos y humanos, la naturaleza y ha sido empleado. El impacto ambiental global de la tecnología fotovoltaica esta en este programa, por lo tanto, la ampliación de la información suministrada a la toma de decisiones. El software se aplicó a un caso de estudio en Cuba, y los resultados mostraron que las tecnologías fotovoltaicas que se consideran son la mejor alternativa energética que maximice los beneficios en las cinco capitales o activos de la comunidad rural, siendo mejor solución que el generador diesel. Esta tesis doctoral se basa en la importancia de las tecnologías fotovoltaicas en nuestra sociedad como la solución para frenar el efecto invernadero. Proporciona una evaluación cuantitativa mediante la evaluación de sus impactos ambientales y las ventajas de sustituir el consumo de combustibles fósiles por electricidad limpia a partir del recurso solar. Los resultados se basan en estudios de casos reales y recogida de datos experimentales que nos permitió calcular el rendimiento de los sistemas y su potencial para la mitigación del cambio climático. [ENG] This PhD dissertation focuses on the evaluation of the environmental impact of different photovoltaic technologies, with special focus on the benefits of replacing conventional fossil fuels with clean electricity production from photovoltaic systems. Emissions of CO2 are highlighted as the main reason of climate change. Human life style (transport, industry, etc.) has to be changed in order to follow the IEA directives. Sustainable energy has an important role to reduce the use of fossil fuels as energy source. Growing economies depend strongly on fossil fuels, and therefore, changing its energy policy are key to slow down global warming. The study follows a detailed methodology based on "Life Cycle Analysis" in combination with technical approaches to monitor working PV facilities and therefore provides quantitative results in term of avoided emissions and the potential for climate change mitigation of PV in different context, ranging from building integration of grid-connected systems to electrification of rural livelihoods. Electricity production is responsible for 32% of total global fossil fuel consumption. In order to mitigate climate change, several countries have already established protocols aimed at the reduction of green-house-gases emissions (Kyoto protocol) and promoted the increase of renewable energy contribution into the energy mix. Development of renewable energies has been continuously growing despite the economic crisis in recent years. Wind and photovoltaic technologies excel in progress and are considered as a reliable future sustainable source of electricity. This thesis is a contribution to the improvement of performance and long term sustainability of photovoltaic systems provided by the use of computing tools and several methodologies which have been applied to different case studies, ranging from the monitoring and experimental evaluation of a photovoltaic grid connected system to the electrification of a rural livelihood. Standardised Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology is applied during this dissertation to measure the environmental impact of a 222kWp CdTe grid-connected photovoltaic generator located at University of Murcia. Environmental benefits of building integration (in the roof of a parking lot) were identified. Constant monitoring of the system allowed us to get real information about its performance. The Energy Pay Back Time of the system was found to be 2.06 years and 1.69 when a recycling scenario is assumed. Having a CO2 emission factor is 6.33 gCO2/kWh and 5.38 gCO2/kWh respectively. LCA is also applied to measure avoided emissions of 1kWp of three photovoltaic technologies: thin-film (CdTe), c-Silicon and Organic polymeric technologies, modelling sixteen different combinations of geographical locations where the modules could be manufactured and/or installed, respectively. The optimum geographical. combination, manufacturer-installer relationship, that is, a geographical “allocation” that provides the higher avoided CO2 emissions per kWp of installed PV capacity is proposed: Brazil-South Africa, Colombia-South Africa. Brazil-Australia, Colombia-Australia, etc. Finally, in order to decide which energy technology can supply electricity to isolated rural areas in developing countries, an existing multi-criteria decision software (SUREDSS) which takes into account the impacts on environmental, financial, human, nature and physical assets has been employed. The global environmental impact of photovoltaic technology was added to this software, therefore extending the information provided to the decision maker. The software was applied to a case study in Cuba, and the results showed that the considered photovoltaic technologies are the best energy alternative that maximizes the benefits on the five capitals or assets of the rural community, being better solution than diesel generator. This PhD dissertation draws on the importance of PV technologies in our society as solution to slow down the greenhouse gas effect. It provides quantitative assessment by evaluating its environmental impacts and the benefits of replacing fossil fuel consumption by clean electricity from the solar resource. The results are based in real case studies and collection of experimental data which allowed us to calculate the performance of the systems and its potential for climate change mitigation., Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena

Made available in DSpace on 2014-06-11T19:31:39Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2009-06-14Bitstream added on 2014-06-13T19:02:05Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 fraga_jrcp_dr_botfca.pdf: 1204439 bytes, checksum: 2e8372a8c8355a32a2d914e2553fc20b (MD5) O presente trabalho teve como objetivo a análise do sistema de armazenamento de energia elétrica gerada a partir de um sistema fotovoltaico, composto por baterias de chumbo-ácido. A crescente demanda de energia no mundo, além da necessidade de utilização de recursos renováveis de forma a preservar o nosso meio ambiente, obriga o desenvolvimento de técnicas de eficiência na produção e controle dessa energia. A escassez apresentada atualmente na área energética ao redor do mundo chama a atenção de toda a comunidade científica que se preocupa em desenvolver projetos alternativos para suprir as necessidades do ser humano de um modo produtivo, não poluente e de baixo custo. Para o desenvolvimento desse trabalho, foram utilizados dois sistemas fotovoltaicos, o primeiro, convencional, com painel solar estacionária e o segundo com um sistema de posicionamento automático com relação ao sol. Esta análise comparativa permitirá avaliar as vantagens ou não de um sistema, em relação ao outro. Além disso, foram levantadas as curvas de carga, descarga, capacidade da bateria, determinação da taxa hora-funcional, a reação de auto-descarga (através do estado de flutuação) entre outras informações relevantes que permitam entre outras coisas, obter uma maior vida útil da bateria estacionária em questão. Esse trabalho levantará as características elétricas, como tensão, corrente, potência e energia, utilizará ferramentas de modelagem através de circuitos elétricos equivalentes para simulação do comportamento da bateria, em situações de carga e descarga, e principalmente o levantamento experimental das baterias funcionando nos dois sistemas distintos. Este trabalho evidencia as diferenças comportamento da bateria, e mostra a configuração que permite a operação da bateria em condições mais favoráveis. Os resultados obtidos, indicam que a bateria ligada... This work aimed at analyzing the electric energy storage system generated from a photovoltaic system with lead-acid batteries. The increasing claim for energy in the world in addition to the need of utilizing renewable sources of energy in order to preserve the environment makes necessary the development of efficient techniques for energy generation and control. The energy shortage experienced in today’s world attracts attention from the scientific community, which is concerned about developing alternative projects towards the human being’s need in a productive way, without pollution and low cost. Two photovoltaic systems were used in this work, a conventional one with stationary solar panel and another with automatic solar position system. The comparative analysis has allowed assessing the advantages of both systems. The following characteristics were obtained during the development of this work: charge, discharge, battery capacity, operating time rate, auto-discharge reaction (through fluctuation state), among other important information that allowed to attain an extended life to the stationary battery studied. The characteristics described in the references of this work have been obtained, and modeling techniques through electric circuits were used to simulate the battery behavior for charge and discharge conditions. The experimental tests of the battery operation in both systems were carried out. This research has searched for showing the main differences of the battery behavior in order to get the configuration in which the battery operation is developed in more favorable conditions.

Made available in DSpace on 2014-06-11T19:31:36Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2008-12-01Bitstream added on 2014-06-13T20:22:32Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 alves_af_dr_botfca.pdf: 3009487 bytes, checksum: 7d842f6597ccf4cbd7f7ebb8d5925852 (MD5) A necessidade de oferecer alternativas para energização de propriedades rurais de pequeno porte com eficiência, confiabilidade e custo acessível, motivou a realização desta pesquisa, cujo enfoque principal foram os sistemas fotovoltaicos e a busca por um melhor desempenho destes sistemas a partir de estratégias de posicionamento dos painéis solares em direção ao Sol. Este trabalho apresenta o desenvolvimento experimental de um conjunto posicionador automático para módulos fotovoltaicos e a avaliação do funcionamento deste conjunto considerando-se o aumento na geração de energia elétrica em função da complexidade de implementação e do consumo de energia pelo próprio sistema de movimentação, além de seus custos de implantação. Foi projetado e implementado um dispositivo eletromecânico simplificado, capaz de sustentar e movimentar um módulo fotovoltaico ao longo do dia e ao longo do ano, sempre mantendo sua superfície direcionada em posição perpendicular aos raios solares incidentes. Utilizaram-se motores de passo, controlador lógico programável e componentes de baixo custo, que resultaram em um conjunto de manutenção simplificada,sem uso de sensores e com otimização dos movimentos, devido ao ajuste de inclinação do painel ser realizado somente uma vez ao dia. A avaliação do ganho na geração de energia elétrica baseou-se na coleta dos dados elétricos (tensão e corrente) e ambientais (insolação e temperatura) de dois sistemas fotovoltaicos com as mesmas características, instalados lado a lado, sujeitos às mesmas condições de insolação, temperatura e carga elétrica, sendo um fixo e outro móvel. A partir dos resultados obtidos concluiu-se pela viabilidade da proposta, não apenas pelo êxito no aumento da geração de energia, mas também pela boa relação custo/benefício, indicando que o sistema posicionador desenvolvido mostra-se vantajoso... The need to offer alternatives of electricity supply to the small rural properties, providing them with efficiency, reliability and accessible cost, has motivated the development of this research, whose main approach was photovoltaic systems and the search for better performance of these systems with the solar panels positioning toward the sun. This work presents the experimental development of an automatic positioning system for photovoltaic modules and the evaluation of this system’s behavior taking in account the increase in generation of electric energy as a function of the complexity of implementation and the consumption of energy by the movement system itself, and its costs of implantation also. It was designed and built a simplified electromechanical device, which is able to support and to move a photovoltaic module along the day and along the year, always keeping its surface aimed to the sun rays. Stepper motors, programmable logic controller and low cost components were used, and these have resulted on a simplified maintenance set, with no sensors and optimization of movements, due the adjustment of panel’s inclination take place only once a day. The methodology adopted to evaluate the gain in the electricity generation was based on the acquisition of electrical data (voltage and current) and environmental data (insolation and temperature) from two photovoltaic systems whose have identical physical and electrical characteristics and were installed side by side, submitted to the same conditions of insolation, temperature and electric load. One of the solar panels was mounted on a fixed mechanical structure, and the other one on a mobile structure.The obtained results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed mobile system, not only because of the real increase observed in electric energy generation, but also by the excellent cost effectiveness obtained... (Complete abstract click electronic access below)