Abstract:

Off-grid electrification is an alternative solution in cases where connection to the public electricity grid is unviable. Reliability evaluation of such systems is critical to achieve optimal design and end-user satisfaction. A Stand-Alone Photovoltaic (SAP) system is an option for off-grid electrification. A SAP system’s reliability and performability are analyzed taking into consideration system components failure, mean monthly values of solar radiation and mean daily distribution of solar radiation. Continuous Time Markov Chains (CTMC) are used to calculate the system’s reliability. Subsequently, performability indicators, in particular Loss Of Energy Expectation (LOEE) and Loss Of Load Expectation (LOLE), are extracted with the use of solar radiation data provided publicly. We apply the model for a small residential off-grid solar system situated in Nea Kallikrateia, Greece, and discuss the results.