Real-Time Control and Monitoring of Photovoltaic Arrays Using RTDS and BeagleBoard Technology

Abstract

Increasing integration of alternate electricity generation due to declining fossil fuels is becoming an essential option for future generations. As photovoltaic technology brings forth enormous benefits to the alternate solution for future power grid systems, this paper presents a comprehensive real-time system designed to model, control, and monitor a PV array subjected to dynamic loads using the Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) environment. Integration with the Generic Transducer Network (GTNET)- Socket(SKT) module allows for the simulation of various environmental conditions, such as changes in insolation and temperature, and their direct impact on the PV array's performance. Utilizing BeagleBoard technology, the system demonstrates the capability to modify these conditions through real-time data input, subsequently observing the effects on current and voltage output curves. The real-time simulation results are visualized as a SCADA system within the Real-time Simulation for Automated Controller Design (RSCAD) runtime environment, providing insights into the effective management of solar power systems.