OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OPTIMIZATION OF AN ON-GRID SOLAR FARM IN JORDAN

Abstract

The critical need to guarantee sustainable energy futures and reduce climate change has led to an expanded global search for renewable energy sources (RES) in recent years. Solar energy is one of the most abundant, easily accessible, and environmentally friendly forms of renewable energy. On the other hand, careful consideration of several variables and elements impacting system performance is necessary for the best possible use of solar energy in grid-connected systems. Using solar power has a lot of promise to satisfy energy demands and lessen reliance on fossil fuels in areas like Jordan, which has plenty of sunshine and an increasing need for electricity. Within this framework, the goal of this thesis is to progress grid-connected solar systems by the creation of a thorough mathematical model (MM) that maximizes both system economic viability and efficiency. The emphasis is on two critical factors that are necessary to improve energy production and performance ratio: the pace of soil mitigation and the installation of a vertical-axis tracking device. Stakeholders in solar energy projects can make decisions more easily when the MM creates an objective function that weighs possible earnings against installation and maintenance expenses. Making use of the model's non-linearity, a Particle Swarm Optimisation (PSO) technique is used to determine the ideal parameter values, which results in a well-balanced system performance and cost effectiveness. In addition, the study utilizes actual data obtained from solar system factories located in Jordan, guaranteeing the model's suitability for regional circumstances. The use of a daily tracking method based on a single axis and the modification of tilt angles to conform to ideal circumstances in Amman, Jordan, highlight the study's dedication to practical relevance and practical effect. In addition, to address the problem of dirt mitigation, the suggested regular cleaning schedule seeks to reduce annual loss factors, which in turn improves system lifetime and efficiency. This thesis aims to educate policymakers, energy planners, and industry stakeholders on methods to optimize the use of solar energy resources in Jordan and comparable areas by providing insights into the optimization of grid-connected solar systems.