Comparison of Different Extraction Methods for the Simulation of Thin-Film PV Module

Abstract

This paper investigates and compares three different methods commonly employed in solving current–voltage equation of single diode and two diode solar PV models using manufacturer’s data sheet based on three parameter estimation methods are employed: an iterative method, method of the slope at point and an analytical method based on the Lambert W function. These three existing mathematical methods are implemented to estimate the parameters of thin-film PV module under changing environmental conditions. The results reveal that no single method performs best in all the metrics and there will always be a trade-off in the choice of the method based on the user’s focus. The present work can be a potential tool for researchers and designers working in the area of photovoltaic systems, to make decisions related to the selection of the best possible method for the extraction of the characteristic parameters of thin-film PV modules.