Irradiance Sensor: Estimate Through Current, Voltage and Temperature of the Photovoltaic Module

Abstract

Brazil is growing in photovoltaic solar energy generation, driven by various power plants across different regions. However, smaller generation points lack adequate equipment to monitor atmospheric and climatic factors affecting photovoltaic generation. To address this, this study aims to develop a cost-effective tool for estimating irradiance, crucial for determining electrical power generation. The proposed solution involves a prototype utilizing a 10W module as a reference cell, connected to sensors measuring voltage, current, and temperature, all controlled by an Arduino device. This tool will enable studies on irradiance levels, their variations throughout the day and across locations, facilitating optimization of module positioning, evaluation of power generation, fault detection, and determining cleaning frequency.