The Sapv Simulation Program

The problem of correct dimensioning of a Stand Alone Photo Voltaic (SAPV) plant is not completely solved. An accurate and simple tool for the performance prediction of the system and its components is needed. In this paper we describe a simple but accurate simulation program. It uses easily available climatic data (daily mean values). The measurements needed to characterize the SAPV components are discussed with some detail. The results of several runs using the solar radiation generated with a stochastic technique are shown; from them we have drawn some criteria for correct dimensioning. The daily radiation sequences, used in our program, reproduces the autocorrelated nature of the solar flux, then assure that the effect of the climat variability on the storage dimensioning is well considered.