Thus, the accuracy and performance of the solar PV system can be improved by employing an efficient solar PV monitoring system . Monitoring is the process of observing and recording the parameters from the solar PV power plant in real-time.
This chapter provides the rationale behind photovoltaic (PV) system monitoring, its purpose, the necessity of proper measuring, and the frequency required to produce meaningful results. The need for system monitoring comprises three groups: user feedback, performance verification, and system evaluation.
Firstly, the review of solar PV monitoring systems based on data processing modules with its design features, implementation, comments or suggestions, and limitations is presented. Secondly, various data transmission protocols are studied for solar PV monitoring systems.
The proposed monitoring system was integrated with the home network consisting of the home plug. Another concept in the field of the solar PV power plant is string monitoring with PLC which was proposed by Goto et al. . The monitoring of each string in a solar PV plant consisted of 10–20 panels.
Solar PV plant performance and life are critically dependent on surrounding weather conditions. Hence, weather monitoring is a crucial asset to help optimize the overall performance and running efficiency of solar PV systems. Following are some key parameters that directly affect the energy output and hence the ROI:
Photovoltaic (PV) is one of the most potential renewable energy based power generation systems. Monitoring of PV system is very important to send information that allows owners to maintain, operate and control these systems to reduce maintenance costs and to avoid unwanted electric power disruptions.