Experimental Analysis of Battery Charge Regulation in Photovoltaic Systems

Abstract

The influence of charge regulation on batteries for stand-alone photovoltaic systems is analysed in relation to two factors: battery lifetime and the daily energy service supplied. The regulation thresholds adjusted in the charge controller (for disconnection and reconnection), in overcharge and deep discharge conditions, determine the whole system operation. Laboratory testing procedures are proposed and applied to different components of the photovoltaic rural electrification market. Finally, technical recommendations for charge regulation of lead-acid batteries are presented. © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.