Energy management and renewable energy, electric vehicles, solar or wind power stations or photovoltaic systems, are all sectors that are experiencing high demand and growth. This period of growth requires new solutions that can handle high loads in a way that is both efficient and safe.
Tecnologic-UK have carved a reputation in sourcing and supplying the best products, those offering high precision and efficiency within a well-constructed quality product that will last. The two main areas in which T-UK can offer specialist products to those involved in renewable energy include PID control and Solid State Relays. In this article we specifically explore the uses of PID control for solar panels and DC motors in solar tracking.
As well as an extensive array of products stocked, we can also provide technical advice in the configuration and construction of your system. Contact Us for specific advice and product information.
Introduction to PID in renewable energy
Renewable energy is an essential part of our future, and PID control plays a crucial role in optimising its efficiency. In this article, we will explore the benefits of PID control in solar energy applications and also provide some use examples of SSRs in renewable energy applications.
PID stands for proportional, integral, and derivative control. It is a widely used control technique that is utilised in various industries, including renewable energy. PID control aims to maintain a set point by adjusting the output of a system based on feedback from sensors. In renewable energy applications, this means ensuring that energy is generated and utilised efficiently.
One of the significant benefits of PID control in renewable energy applications is its ability to maintain a consistent output. The output of solar panels, for example, depends on factors such as the angle of the sun, cloud cover, and the time of day. PID control helps to stabilise these fluctuations, ensuring that the output remains consistent.
Another benefit of PID control is its ability to optimise energy efficiency. In renewable energy applications, it is essential to generate energy efficiently to reduce waste and ensure a sustainable future. PID control achieves this by adjusting the output of the system based on feedback from sensors, ensuring that the energy generated is employed optimally.
PID control also enhances the lifespan of renewable energy equipment. Renewable energy systems are complex and expensive, and it is crucial to ensure that they are well-maintained and long-lasting. PID control can help to achieve this by regulating the output of the system and preventing equipment from operating beyond its capacity. By doing so, it reduces the risk of equipment failure and prolongs the lifespan of the system.
Finally, PID control reduces the need for manual adjustments. Renewable energy systems require regular adjustments to ensure that they are generating energy efficiently. PID control automates this process, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimising the risk of human error.
PID control solar panels
Some examples of PID in Solar Panels and parks include the following energy and system management requirements
Winter Overvoltage Control: In cold weather conditions, photovoltaic (PV) systems can experience increased voltage levels due to reduced battery capacity and higher solar panel output. To prevent overvoltage, PID control can be employed to regulate the power flow from the PV system to the grid or to storage devices, ensuring that the voltage remains within acceptable limits.
Load Protection: PID control can be used to protect loads connected to renewable energy systems. For example, in a wind turbine application, PID control can adjust the turbine’s pitch angle to maintain a constant rotational speed, thereby protecting the turbine and connected loads from excessive stresses caused by high wind speeds.
Efficiency Boosters for Solar Panels: PID control can enhance the efficiency of solar panels by optimising their operating conditions. The control system continuously adjusts the panel’s operating point (voltage and current) to track the maximum power point (MPP) under varying environmental conditions, such as changes in solar irradiance and temperature. This ensures that the solar panels operate at their highest efficiency and generate maximum power.
PID with peltier product information
Celduc’s DC IGBT Solid State Relays, SCI range, can be used in this system.
Solar Tracking Motor Reversing Relays
Solar trackers also ensure the directional optimisation of each solar panel and as such, PID control is commonly used to adjust the orientation of solar panels towards the sun. The control system receives input from sun-tracking sensors and computes the required motor movements to align the panels with the sun’s position. PID control enables accurate tracking and minimizes tracking errors, ensuring optimal solar energy capture throughout the day.
A dual axis tracking system is a system that follows the sun in multiple angles ensuring that the sunbeam angle is 100% correct on the panel. Solar Tracking for the sun position can be done in 2 axes : azimuth and elevation.
DC motor for solar tracking
DC reversers can be used for the DC motors for solar tracking systems to reverse the rotational direction.
Ready to use and mounted on a DIN rail, the XKRD30506 module consists of four Solid State relays pre-wired as a reverser to be used to change the direction of a DC motor (100W @ 24Vdc). Control voltage ranges from 7 to 30VDC and this module can switch up to 5A/60VDC.
A voltage clamp device is integrated and offers an input-output insulation of 2500VRMS.
The SGRD inverter includes all the control electronics as well as short-circuit protection and lockout to prevent the two rotation directions from being gang-operated. Control voltage ranges from 8 to 36VDC and this SSR can switch up to 10A/60Vpk.
Motor Reversing relay product information
More information about our partner Celduc Relais and their range of products.