Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community

A. S. Aljuboury; W.K. Al-Azzawi; L. M. Shakier; Ahmed Al-Amiery; A. H. Kadhum

doi:10.12688/f1000research.128868.2

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Research Article

Revised

Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community

[version 2; peer review: 4 approved with reservations]

A. S. Aljuboury¹, W.K. Al-Azzawi², L. M. Shakier³, Ahmed Al-Amiery ^3,4, A. H. Kadhum⁵

A. S. Aljuboury¹, W.K. Al-Azzawi², [...] L. M. Shakier³, Ahmed Al-Amiery ^3,4, A. H. Kadhum⁵

PUBLISHED 05 Feb 2024

Author details Author details

¹ Continuing Education Center, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Baghdad, 10001, Iraq
² Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, 10001, Iraq
³ Department of Chemical and Process Engineering,, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, P.O. Box: 43600, Malaysia
⁴ Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, Selangor, 43600, Malaysia
⁵ University of Al-Ameed, University of Al-Ameed, Karbala, Karbala, 56001, Iraq

A. S. Aljuboury
Roles: Methodology, Software

W.K. Al-Azzawi
Roles: Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Funding Acquisition

L. M. Shakier
Roles: Writing – Original Draft Preparation

Ahmed Al-Amiery
Roles: Project Administration, Resources, Supervision, Writing – Review & Editing

A. H. Kadhum
Roles: Investigation, Methodology, Validation, Visualization

OPEN PEER REVIEW

REVIEWER STATUS

This article is included in the Energy gateway.

This article is included in the Solar Fuels and Storage Technologies collection.

Abstract

Background

The escalating global population, surpassing seven billion in 2012, amplifies the strain on existing resources for food, housing, and conventional energy. Addressing these challenges requires the development of economically and environmentally viable renewable energy technologies. Photovoltaic (PV) solar modules stand out for their eco-friendly operation and reliability. In off-grid communities, stand-alone PV systems, coupled with battery storage, play a pivotal role in meeting electrical energy needs.

Methods

This study enhances the understanding of stand-alone PV systems through modeling and simulation using MATLAB software. A multi-crystalline PV system, specifically the Kyocera KC130GT, is investigated under varying conditions, and a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller is employed for battery charging.

Results

The study reveals profound effects on energy production based on the I-V and P-V characteristics of the modeled system when a PWM controller is utilized. The system demonstrates successful energy generation under different conditions, accounting for temperature variations and PV battery voltage mismatches.

Conclusion

The simulated model serves as a versatile system capable of detecting different conditions in varying light and temperature scenarios. Effective temperature monitoring, voltage adjustment using a suitable charger controller, and the selection of optimal materials for solar modules can significantly enhance the system’s efficiency. The results emphasize the importance of careful consideration of PV system sizing corresponding to battery capacity for improved solar system efficiency. While the cost of the modeled stand-alone PV system is currently low, scalability to larger projects may incur increased costs due to the high prices of photovoltaic panels, batteries, and other components.

Keywords

Stand-alone PV, Photovoltaic system, Solar cell, MATLAB simulation

Corresponding author: Ahmed Al-Amiery

Competing interests: No competing interests were disclosed.

Grant information: The author(s) declared that no grants were involved in supporting this work.

Copyright: © 2024 Aljuboury AS et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

How to cite: Aljuboury AS, Al-Azzawi WK, Shakier LM et al. Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community [version 2; peer review: 4 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:1540 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.128868.2) First published: 20 Dec 2022, 11:1540 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.128868.1) Latest published: 05 Feb 2024, 11:1540 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.128868.2)

Revised Amendments from Version 1

In this revised version of the article, several significant improvements and additions have been made to enhance the clarity, completeness, and overall quality of the research. The title has been modified to better reflect the content and methodology employed in the study, providing readers with a more informative and concise overview. The abstract has been expanded to include additional applications of the proposed method and to highlight key results, addressing the need for more specificity and interest.
The introduction section has been restructured into four paragraphs, providing a more comprehensive background on the energy situation and emphasizing the importance of renewable energy sources, particularly solar energy.
The methods section has been refined for clarity and flow, with the inclusion of sub-sections (Materials and Modeling/Simulation) to provide a more organized presentation.
A new section on cost analysis has been incorporated into the conclusion, including a detailed table listing the costs of individual components to provide transparency in the cost analysis process. The discussion section now includes a table discussing load demand characteristics, offering a more comprehensive insight into the system's behavior. Detailed descriptions of the output PV modules have been added to the results section, contributing to a more thorough understanding of the findings. The reliability of the stand-alone PV system is explicitly discussed, addressing the criteria and metrics employed for assessment.
Overall, these revisions aim to address the valuable feedback from reviewers and further strengthen the scholarly contributions of the research.

See the authors' detailed response to the review by Hussein Mohammed Ridha
See the authors' detailed response to the review by Erkata Yandri

Introduction

The surge in global population, exceeding seven billion in 2012, has intensified the strain on essential resources such as food, shelter, and conventional energy sources. This escalating demand underscores the need for sustainable alternatives, especially in the realm of energy production. The transition to renewable energy sources is crucial, given the limitations and environmental implications associated with conventional energy. Solar energy, with its abundance and environmental friendliness, stands out as a key player in the quest for sustainable solutions. Harnessing solar energy through photovoltaic (PV) systems, particularly in off-grid settings, presents a promising avenue to address the growing energy needs while minimizing environmental impact.¹^–⁵ This transition introduces the pivotal role of solar energy and sets the stage for a detailed exploration of solar photovoltaic systems. Connecting the dots from the broader energy context, we delve into the intricacies of harnessing solar power through PV technology. The developmental phenomena and pertinent issues surrounding stand-alone PV systems become apparent, paving the way for an in-depth examination of our study’s focal points. As we embark on this journey, it becomes evident that understanding and optimizing stand-alone PV systems hold great potential for providing sustainable and reliable energy solutions to remote, off-grid communities.⁶^–⁹ By prioritizing recent publications within the last five years, we aim to capture the most up-to-date insights into the advancements, challenges, and best practices in the field. This literature review serves as a foundation for our study, enabling us to build upon existing knowledge, identify gaps, and contribute novel insights.¹⁰^–¹³ Summarizing the results of our literature review, we highlight gaps and novelties that lay the groundwork for our study. By elucidating the current state of knowledge in stand-alone PV systems, we identify areas where further research is warranted. This leads us to articulate the purpose of our study, emphasizing the need to model, simulate, and evaluate PV islanding systems to enhance their operational efficiency in diverse projects. As a pivotal step towards sustainable energy solutions, our research aims to bridge existing gaps and contribute valuable insights to the field. Furthermore, as suggested, Figure 1, “Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems,” has been relocated to the Methods section to ensure a streamlined presentation of our study.¹⁴^–¹⁶ The primary objective of this study is to model, simulate, and evaluate stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) systems, specifically focusing on PV islanding scenarios. By employing advanced simulation techniques and modeling tools, our aim is to enhance the understanding of system dynamics and operational efficiency under varying conditions. Through a comprehensive literature review and detailed analysis of recent research, we seek to identify key challenges, advancements, and gaps in stand-alone PV systems. Additionally, our aim includes providing valuable insights into optimizing the performance of these systems, particularly in remote, off-grid communities. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the development of sustainable and reliable energy solutions by addressing critical aspects of stand-alone PV system design, operation, and efficiency.

Figure 1. Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems.

Methods

System configuration

A typical stand-alone PV system, illustrated in Figure 1, comprises essential components such as a PV generator, storage battery, DC/DC converter, charge controller, inverter, alternating current (AC) and/or direct current (DC) loads, and an attenuation load. Notably, there is no connection to the power grid, emphasizing the system’s self-sufficiency. The PV generator consists of an array with multiple modules, each housing numerous solar cells. Excess energy generated during peak sunlight is stored in the battery, subsequently released when the PV generator output is insufficient. The load demand of the PV islanding system can manifest in various forms, including DC and/or AC. The power conditioning unit, encompassing the DC/DC converter, charge controller, and inverter, serves as a vital interface ensuring control and protection. Additionally, a reducing load is incorporated to absorb surplus energy when the PV generator output exceeds the load requirement.¹⁷^–²⁴

Modeling and simulation

To enhance understanding of system operation, a stand-alone PV solar cell was chosen for comprehensive modeling and simulation. The MATLAB software, specifically the Simulink portal (Version: R2017a, RRID: SCR_001622), facilitated this process. The evaluation criteria for building an optimized stand-alone PV system were established, considering a solar irradiance of 1000 W/m². The chosen multi-crystalline PV system, Kyocera KC130GT, featured 36 individual cells connected with two bypass diodes to prevent breakdown and reverse voltage. Terminal voltages, P-V, and I-V characteristics were measured under varying conditions, as depicted in Figure 2 and Figure 3.

Figure 2. MATLAB model depicting the stand-alone PV system with 36 individual solar.

Figure 3. Simulated I-V and P-V characteristics using MATLAB.

The simulation incorporated realistic environmental factors by setting temperatures to 25 or 40 °C. The battery, a crucial component of the PV islanding system model, was connected to a parallel resistor of 8.64 Ω and a 12 V voltage source. A pulse width modulation (PWM) charge controller, simulated at 5 kHz with an 8.02 A saturation current, controlled the battery. A 21.7 V PV voltage at a duty cycle of 0.5 for 1 second was utilized. Solar irradiance data for Baghdad on a sunny day (February 2, 2022) and a rainy day (February 5, 2022) further enriched the simulation, accounting for weather effects on system performance.²⁵

Results and discussion

In this study, the electrical energy generated by the PV panels was assessed, considering losses across the entire system. The simulations conducted under different weather conditions on February 2, 2022, and February 5, 2022, aimed to determine the optimal parameters for a home stand-alone PV solar system. The analysis facilitates the calculation of the expected power supply throughout the year under diverse environmental circumstances. The overall I-V and P-V characteristics of the modelled PV solar array are depicted in Figure 4. Notably, the highest power values, approximately 119 and 125 Watts, were observed at temperatures of 25 °C and 40 °C, respectively (Figure 5). The I-V and P-V plots unveil the influence of cell temperature, primarily dictated by the material composition, including multi-crystalline materials. The voltage and current characteristics of the PV panels significantly impact power production, especially when a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) charge controller is employed. It’s noteworthy that while stand-alone PV systems typically operate within the range of 11-14 V, the integration of a PWM charge controller and a 12 V operating battery shifts hybrid PV systems to operate consistently at 12 V.

Figure 4. Both current and power indications as functions of supplied voltage in the modelled PV arrays.

Figure 5. Both current and power indications as functions of supplied voltage in the modelled PV arrays at 25 °C and 40 °C.

Simulating the main components of the stand-alone PV system using solar irradiance data (Figure 6), the state of charge of the battery exhibited distinct patterns during sunny and rainy days (Figure 7). Equipped with an 8.02 A saturation current and 21.7 volts, the photovoltaic model demonstrated dynamic behavior. During sunny hours, the load consumed part of the power, and excess energy was stored in the battery through charging. Conversely, during periods of low solar radiation, the load drew power from the battery. Notably, a load was disconnected as soon as the charge rate fell below 30%. On February 2, 2022 (sunny day), the battery’s state of charge decreased from 75% to 55%, indicating power supply to the load. The PV panels effectively met the load power requirements. On February 5, 2022 (rainy day), a similar pattern in battery state of charge was observed, but the lower irradiation resulted in the PV panels supplying less power. Consequently, the simulated system exhibited superior performance during sunny conditions, with the battery reaching a maximum state of charge of 95%, compared to 58% on the rainy day’s conclusion.

Figure 6. Supplied solar irradiance data during sunny and rainy days as a function of time.

Figure 7. State of charge, voltage, and current simulation states of the battery during sunny days (straight line) and rainy days (dashed lines).

The supplied solar irradiance data, as illustrated in Figure 6, provides a temporal understanding of the variations during sunny and rainy days. Figure 7, depicting the state of charge, voltage, and current simulation states of the battery, elucidates the system’s behavior, showcasing differences between sunny and rainy days with straight and dashed lines, respectively.

The simulation results presented here offer valuable insights into the dynamic performance of the stand-alone PV system under varying environmental conditions. To provide a more comprehensive understanding, additional simulation results can be incorporated in future studies, further enhancing the robustness of the findings. In the ensuing discussion, we delve into key implications of the results, touching upon factors such as system efficiency, energy storage, and the overall feasibility of the stand-alone PV system for remote, off-grid communities.

Output PV module characteristics

The electrical performance of the stand-alone PV system is closely tied to the characteristics of the output PV modules. In this section, we provide detailed descriptions of the key attributes and behaviors observed in the simulated output of the PV modules.

1. PV Module Specifications: The simulation utilized a multi-crystalline PV system, specifically the Kyocera KC130GT model. This PV module consists of 36 individual cells connected with two bypass diodes. The specifications of the Kyocera KC130GT, including its power rating, voltage, and current characteristics, significantly influence the overall energy output of the system.
2. I-V (Current-Voltage) Characteristics: The I-V characteristics of the output PV modules were measured and analyzed under different operating conditions. These characteristics provide insights into the relationship between current and voltage, showcasing how the modules respond to varying levels of solar irradiance and temperature. Figure 3 illustrates the I-V curves for the Kyocera KC130GT model.
3. P-V (Power-Voltage) Characteristics: The power-voltage (P-V) characteristics of the output PV modules were also examined. These characteristics reveal the power output at different voltage levels, aiding in the determination of the maximum power point (MPP). Figure 4 depicts the P-V curves for the Kyocera KC130GT model.
4. Temperature Effects: Temperature plays a crucial role in the performance of PV modules. The simulation considered two temperature scenarios (25 °C and 40 °C) to assess the impact on the output characteristics. Variations in temperature influence the efficiency and power output of the PV modules.
5. Voltage and Current Dependency: The voltage and current characteristics of the PV modules were investigated, particularly focusing on their impact on power production when integrated with a PWM charge controller. Understanding the voltage and current dependency is vital for optimizing the charging process and overall system efficiency.

The detailed examination of the output PV modules provides valuable insights into the performance of the stand-alone PV system. These characteristics influence the overall energy generation, efficiency, and response to environmental factors, contributing to informed decision-making in system design and operation.

Reliability assessment of the stand-alone PV system: Criteria and metrics

Reliability is a critical aspect when evaluating the performance of a stand-alone PV system. In our study, we employed several criteria and metrics to comprehensively assess the reliability of the simulated system. The following outlines the key factors considered in evaluating the reliability:

1. Performance Metrics:
- • Energy Output Stability: The stability of energy output over varying environmental conditions, such as solar irradiance and temperature, was a primary metric. A reliable system should consistently generate the expected energy, ensuring a stable power supply.
- • Voltage and Current Consistency: The consistency of voltage and current outputs from the PV modules, especially when subjected to dynamic load demands, contributes to the system’s reliability. Deviations from expected values may indicate potential issues.
- • Battery State of Charge (SOC): Monitoring the state of charge of the battery is crucial for reliability. The system’s ability to maintain an optimal SOC ensures a continuous power supply, especially during periods of low solar radiation.
2. Fault Tolerance and Durability:
- • Fault Handling: The system’s response to faults, such as fluctuations in solar irradiance or sudden load changes, was assessed. A reliable system should demonstrate effective fault handling, minimizing disruptions to energy generation.
- • Component Durability: The durability of individual components, including PV modules, batteries, and controllers, was considered. Reliable components contribute to the overall robustness of the system against wear and tear.
3. Charging and Discharging Efficiency:
- • Charge Controller Efficiency: The efficiency of the charge controller, particularly when employing pulse width modulation (PWM), played a crucial role in optimizing the charging and discharging processes. Efficient energy management enhances overall system reliability.
- • Battery Charging/Discharging Efficiency: The effectiveness of the battery in storing and releasing energy was assessed. Reliability is enhanced when the battery operates efficiently, minimizing energy losses during charge and discharge cycles.
4. Environmental Adaptability:
- • Temperature Resilience: The system’s ability to operate effectively under varying temperatures was a key criterion. A reliable system should demonstrate resilience to temperature fluctuations, ensuring consistent performance.
- • Adaptability to Solar Irradiance Changes: As solar irradiance patterns change throughout the day, the system’s adaptability to these variations contributes to its reliability. Consistent energy generation under different irradiance conditions is essential.

By employing these criteria and metrics, we aimed to holistically evaluate the reliability of the stand-alone PV system in our simulation. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the system’s performance and provide insights for potential improvements in real-world implementations.

Load demand characteristics

Understanding the load demand characteristics is crucial for designing an efficient stand-alone PV system that can meet the energy requirements of the intended application. The load demand profile represents the pattern of electrical consumption over time, influencing the sizing of components and overall system performance. In this section, we delve into the load demand characteristics of the simulated stand-alone PV system:

1. Load Profile Analysis: The load demand profile was analyzed based on historical data and usage patterns. Distinct load variations throughout the day, week, or season were considered to capture the dynamic nature of energy consumption.
2. Peak Load Identification: Identifying peak load periods is essential for sizing the PV generator and storage components. Peak load times influence the determination of required battery capacity and the ability of the system to handle sudden surges in energy demand.
3. Load Types and Variability: Categorizing loads into DC and AC, and assessing their variability, aids in selecting suitable components and optimizing the overall system architecture. Understanding load variability ensures that the system can adapt to fluctuations in energy consumption.
4. Load Priority and Critical Applications: Assigning priority levels to different loads enables efficient energy management. Critical applications with higher priority receive a continuous power supply, ensuring uninterrupted operation even during adverse conditions.
5. Load Shedding Strategies: Implementing load shedding strategies during periods of excess energy generation allows for the optimization of battery storage. Non-critical loads can be temporarily disconnected to prevent overcharging and enhance overall system efficiency.
6. Future Load Growth Considerations: Anticipating future load growth is essential for designing a scalable system. By understanding potential changes in energy demand, the system can be configured to accommodate increased loads without compromising performance.
7. Integration with Photovoltaic Generation: The correlation between load demand and solar irradiance patterns was considered to align energy generation with consumption. Synchronizing PV generation with peak load times enhances the system’s ability to meet demand during critical periods.
8. Implications for System Design: The load demand characteristics directly influence the sizing of PV modules, battery capacity, and the overall power conditioning unit. The results of the load demand analysis guide the selection of components to ensure optimal system performance under varying conditions.

In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of load demand characteristics is fundamental for designing a resilient and efficient stand-alone PV system. The insights gained from this analysis contribute to informed decision-making, supporting the development of a system that meets the energy needs of the intended application.

Conclusion

In summary, this study employed modeling and simulation techniques to assess the performance of a stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system, particularly focusing on its viability for remote, off-grid communities. Through comprehensive simulations under different weather conditions, the study aimed to optimize the system parameters for enhanced efficiency and year-round energy supply. The key findings and conclusions drawn from the research are outlined below. The analysis of the modelled PV solar array revealed significant dependence on temperature, material composition, and the impact of using a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) charge controller. The system exhibited robust performance, generating the highest power outputs at temperatures of 25 °C and 40 °C. The integration of a PWM charge controller and a 12 V operating battery showcased the adaptability of hybrid PV systems, consistently operating at 12 V. Simulation results illustrated the dynamic behavior of the stand-alone PV system, with the state of charge of the battery responding to variations in solar irradiance. Notably, the system’s superior performance during sunny days, reaching a maximum state of charge of 95%, emphasized its potential for reliable energy supply. The observed differences in performance under varying environmental conditions underscore the importance of meticulous system design and parameter optimization.

Despite the promising outcomes, certain considerations must be acknowledged. The study provides valuable insights into the performance of the stand-alone PV system, yet further refinements and real-world validations are warranted. Additionally, economic factors and scalability should be explored to ascertain the system’s practicality for larger projects and remote communities. In conclusion, the simulated model offers a valuable tool for understanding the nuanced conditions affecting stand-alone PV systems. The findings emphasize the significance of temperature control, material selection, and charge controller optimization in enhancing system efficiency. As technologies evolve, the insights gained from this study contribute to the ongoing efforts to harness renewable energy for sustainable development, especially in remote, off-grid areas.

The comprehensive cost analysis presented in Table 1 provides a detailed breakdown of the financial aspects associated with the stand-alone PV system components. Understanding the economic considerations of renewable energy projects is vital for decision-making and long-term sustainability. Here, we discuss key observations and implications derived from the cost analysis:

1. Photovoltaic Modules: The cost of photovoltaic modules constitutes a significant portion of the overall system expenses. Exploring avenues for cost reduction, such as advancements in manufacturing technologies and bulk procurement strategies, could enhance the economic viability of the system.
2. Storage Battery: The storage battery, essential for storing excess energy and ensuring a continuous power supply, contributes notably to the system cost. Future developments in energy storage technologies and economies of scale may lead to more cost-effective solutions.
3. DC/DC Converter, Charge Controller, and Inverter: These power conditioning components play crucial roles in regulating and converting electrical energy. Analyzing these costs offers insights into optimizing system efficiency while balancing financial considerations.
4. DC/AC Loads and Attenuation Load: The costs associated with loads and attenuation reflect the specific requirements and applications of the PV system. Identifying load patterns and evaluating load-related costs contribute to fine-tuning the system design for optimal performance.
5. Wiring, Connectors, Mounting Structure, and Monitoring System: While often considered secondary, these components are integral for system functionality and performance monitoring. Strategically assessing costs related to infrastructure and monitoring contributes to overall system reliability.
6. Miscellaneous (Contingency): Including a contingency for unforeseen circumstances is a prudent approach. This miscellaneous category ensures financial preparedness for unexpected challenges during system deployment and operation.
7. Overall System Cost Implications: The cumulative total system cost represents the financial investment required for the stand-alone PV system. The presented breakdown facilitates a transparent understanding of where financial resources are allocated, aiding decision-makers in budgetary planning and resource optimization.
8. Future Cost Considerations: Continuous advancements in renewable energy technologies, market trends, and policy incentives can influence the cost landscape. Regular reassessment of costs and periodic updates to the financial model will be imperative for staying abreast of evolving economic dynamics.

Table 1. Cost analysis of stand-alone PV system components.

Component	Quantity	Unit cost ($)	Total cost ($)
Photovoltaic Modules	1	729.99	729.99
Storage Battery	1	60	60
DC/DC Converter	1	75	75
Charge Controller (PWM)	1	170	170
Inverter	1	480	480
DC/AC Loads	1	400	400
Attenuation Load	None	None	None
Wiring and Connectors	16	50	800
Mounting Structure	None	None	None
Monitoring System	None	None	None
Miscellaneous (Contingency)	None	None	None
Total System Cost		1964.99	2714.99

In conclusion, a thorough cost analysis serves as a foundational step in realizing the economic feasibility of stand-alone PV systems. The insights gained from this analysis contribute to informed decision-making, supporting the development and implementation of sustainable and cost-effective renewable energy solutions.

Ethical approval and consent

No humans or animals were included in this study.

Data availability

No data are associated with this article

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Version 2

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Version 1

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Discussion is closed on this version, please comment on the latest version above.

Reader Comment 09 Feb 2023

Rathnasamy Rangasamygounder, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, India

09 Feb 2023

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A bird's eye view shows that it is a very basic work of simulation in Matlab. The I-V, P-V characteristics are unique (in general). No real experimental data generated nor ... Continue reading A bird's eye view shows that it is a very basic work of simulation in Matlab. The I-V, P-V characteristics are unique (in general). No real experimental data generated nor the other data used for validation.

It is getting boring to read or do analysis based on these data presented here. However, the authors' effort to publish an article is highly appreciated.
A bird's eye view shows that it is a very basic work of simulation in Matlab. The I-V, P-V characteristics are unique (in general). No real experimental data generated nor the other data used for validation.

It is getting boring to read or do analysis based on these data presented here. However, the authors' effort to publish an article is highly appreciated.
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Author details Author details

A. S. Aljuboury
Roles: Methodology, Software

W.K. Al-Azzawi
Roles: Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Funding Acquisition

L. M. Shakier
Roles: Writing – Original Draft Preparation

Ahmed Al-Amiery
Roles: Project Administration, Resources, Supervision, Writing – Review & Editing

A. H. Kadhum
Roles: Investigation, Methodology, Validation, Visualization

Competing interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

Grant information

The author(s) declared that no grants were involved in supporting this work.

Article Versions (2)

version 2

Revised

Published: 05 Feb 2024, 11:1540

https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.128868.2

version 1

Published: 20 Dec 2022, 11:1540

https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.128868.1

© 2024 Aljuboury AS et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

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Aljuboury AS, Al-Azzawi WK, Shakier LM et al. Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community [version 2; peer review: 4 approved with reservations]. F1000Research 2024, 11:1540 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.128868.2)

NOTE: If applicable, it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article.

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Open Peer Review

Current Reviewer Status: ?

Key to Reviewer Statuses VIEW HIDE

ApprovedThe paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested

Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit.

Not approvedFundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions

Version 2

VERSION 2

PUBLISHED 05 Feb 2024

Revised

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Reviewer Report 11 Feb 2025

Muhammad Ramzan Saeed Ashraf Janjua, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan

Approved with Reservations

https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.160896.r360940

This manuscript can be interesting for readers and it will fit the scope of journal. I would like to suggest major revision and re-review. I have following points:

The title needs to be re-written. Not appealing

This manuscript can be interesting for readers and it will fit the scope of journal. I would like to suggest major revision and re-review. I have following points:

The title needs to be re-written. Not appealing in current form.
The authors should discuss their results in the context of what is already known with specific comparisons to the literature. And regarding energy materials, several important references are missing; 10.1002/ente.202101096; 10.1007/s10825-021-01838-w; 10.1246/bcsj.20130146
Regarding opto-electronic applications, conjugation, resonance effects, several important references for the broad readership are missing and should be part of introduction. To cater further citations for the journal itself, inclusion of important, recent and relevant literature is pre-requisite before the final acceptance. Authors are advised to read and consider the following references to maintain the interest of the readers; 10.1071/CH10094; 10.1002/ejic.201000428; 10.1246/bcsj.20130146; 10.1002/ente.202101096; 10.1016/j.jpcs.2022.110996; 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.1c01760
Regarding HOMO–LUMO gaps and the energy differences, HOMO and LUMO needs a critical discussion in the revised manuscript. Some papers are important to read; 10.1007/s10825-021-01838-w; 10.1002/ente.202101096; 10.1007/s10876-017-1287-9; 10.1080/08927022.2017.1332413
It will be attractive for readers, if authors will summarize the whole study in the form of a picture.

Adding these citations is to ensure that the manuscript provides a well-supported, contextually relevant, and scientifically robust discussion that aligns with the journal's standards and readership expectations. Citing relevant and recent literature from the same journal or similar reputable sources enhances the manuscript’s credibility and aligns it with the journal's thematic interests.

1- The suggestion of summarizing the study in a pictorial representation, implying that a well-structured discussion supported by strong references will improve the manuscript’s clarity and appeal.
2- I specifically request a critical discussion on HOMO and LUMO gaps, indicating that the current manuscript lacks depth in this area. The suggested references provide necessary theoretical and experimental insights that can strengthen the discussion.
3- The cited references include studies on conjugation, resonance effects, and electronic properties, which are essential for a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Including these references ensures the discussion is well-rounded and informative for researchers in the field.

Lastly, I have highlighted that the manuscript lacks a proper discussion comparing its findings with previously published studies. By incorporating the suggested citations, authors can demonstrate how their work aligns with or advances existing knowledge in energy materials and optoelectronic applications.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

No
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Yes
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Yes
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

Yes
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

References

1. Irfan A, Hussien M, Mehboob M, Ahmad A, et al.: Learning from Fullerenes and Predicting for Y6: Machine Learning and High‐Throughput Screening of Small Molecule Donors for Organic Solar Cells. Energy Technology. 2022; 10 (6). Publisher Full Text
2. Haroon M, Janjua M: Exploring the effect of end-capped modifications of carbazole-based fullerene-free acceptor molecules for high-performance indoor organic solar cell applications. Journal of Computational Electronics. 2022; 21 (1): 40-51 Publisher Full Text
3. Janjua M, Su Z, Guan W, Liu C, et al.: Tuning Second-Order Non-linear (NLO) Optical Response of Organoimido-Substituted Hexamolybdates through Halogens: Quantum Design of Novel Organic-Inorganic Hybrid NLO Materials. Australian Journal of Chemistry. 2010; 63 (5). Publisher Full Text
4. Janjua M, Guan W, Yan L, Su Z, et al.: Quantum Chemical Design for Enhanced Second‐Order NLO Response of Terpyridine‐Substituted Hexamolybdates. European Journal of Inorganic Chemistry. 2010; 2010 (22): 3466-3472 Publisher Full Text

Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise: DFT; NLO; Solar Cells

I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above.

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Reviewer Report 16 Sep 2024

CHANDRA SHEKHAR RAJORIA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engineering College Bikaner, Bikaner, India

Approved with Reservations

https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.160896.r323200

The article presents an analysis in which a self-sufficient PV system is designed for off grid community. The paper is now in a much-improved form.

The introduction part is organized and seems well connected with the

The article presents an analysis in which a self-sufficient PV system is designed for off grid community. The paper is now in a much-improved form.

The introduction part is organized and seems well connected with the title of the paper.
The quality of figures is good and readable. The sentences are simple and easy to understand.
What is the peak output of the PV module (kW_p)? A complete PV module specification in tabular form must be provided.
For what load, the whole exercise is done? Why the battery size is limited to one?
If the system is designed for remote off grid community, then how will it be contributing in terms of units of electricity generated?
The simulated results are useful only when they comply with the real situation. A self-sufficient PV system must fulfill the basic requirement of the prescribed community. How the system will cater for the electrical requirement of the remote off-grid community in terms of lighting and other utilities like fans, TV, computer etc.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

Partly
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Partly
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Partly
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

No
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise: BiPVT systems, Solar Thermal Systems, Renewable energy, Power plants

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Version 1

VERSION 1

PUBLISHED 20 Dec 2022

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Reviewer Report 16 Aug 2023

Hussein Mohammed Ridha, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

Approved with Reservations

https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.141501.r175415

The authors of the presented paper try to simulate the behavior of the standalone PV-Battery system, which is considered an interesting topic. However, there are several suggestions are required to be completed to be suitable for publications:

Figure 1 should be replaced with a higher resolution quality.
More papers need to be included in the literature.
Hence, the authors mentioned the cost analysis in the conclusion. However, I have not seen any table lists the cost of the components of the system. Then, how the cost analysis is performed?
The load demand of the system should be indicated and described.
More descriptions on the output PV modules should be included in the result section.
Finally, how the authors describe the reliability of the system? Which criteria are used.

Once the authors consider the previous comments, the submitted paper can be appropriate for publication.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

Partly
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Partly
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Partly
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

Partly
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise: Optimal design and of the standalone PV system, Parameter extraction of the PV models, MOO, and MCDM.

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Author Response 05 Feb 2024

Ahmed Al-Amiery, Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia

05 Feb 2024

Author Response
Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for ... Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for publication. We have carefully considered your comments and suggestions, and we will address each of them below:

Figure 1 Resolution: We apologize for the low resolution of Figure 1. We will replace it with a higher resolution version to enhance its clarity and readability.

Literature Review: We acknowledge the importance of a comprehensive literature review. We will enrich the literature review section by incorporating more relevant papers, particularly recent ones, to strengthen the background and relevance of our study.

Cost Analysis: Your observation about the absence of a cost breakdown for the system components is valid. We will include a detailed table listing the costs of individual components in the conclusion section to provide transparency on the cost analysis process.

Load Demand Description: We appreciate your suggestion to provide more details on the load demand of the system. In the revised manuscript, we will include a section that describes the load demand characteristics, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the system's behavior.

Output PV Module Descriptions: We agree with your recommendation to provide more detailed descriptions of the output PV modules in the Results section. We will include additional information on the specifications and characteristics of the PV modules used in the simulation.

Reliability Criteria: Your question regarding the reliability of the system and the criteria used is crucial. In the revised manuscript, we will explicitly discuss the criteria and metrics employed to assess the reliability of the stand-alone PV system.

We appreciate your thorough evaluation, and we are committed to addressing these suggestions promptly. We believe that incorporating these changes will significantly enhance the quality and completeness of the manuscript.
Thank you for your valuable feedback and consideration.
Best regards,
Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for publication. We have carefully considered your comments and suggestions, and we will address each of them below:

Figure 1 Resolution: We apologize for the low resolution of Figure 1. We will replace it with a higher resolution version to enhance its clarity and readability.

Literature Review: We acknowledge the importance of a comprehensive literature review. We will enrich the literature review section by incorporating more relevant papers, particularly recent ones, to strengthen the background and relevance of our study.

Cost Analysis: Your observation about the absence of a cost breakdown for the system components is valid. We will include a detailed table listing the costs of individual components in the conclusion section to provide transparency on the cost analysis process.

Load Demand Description: We appreciate your suggestion to provide more details on the load demand of the system. In the revised manuscript, we will include a section that describes the load demand characteristics, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the system's behavior.

Output PV Module Descriptions: We agree with your recommendation to provide more detailed descriptions of the output PV modules in the Results section. We will include additional information on the specifications and characteristics of the PV modules used in the simulation.

Reliability Criteria: Your question regarding the reliability of the system and the criteria used is crucial. In the revised manuscript, we will explicitly discuss the criteria and metrics employed to assess the reliability of the stand-alone PV system.

We appreciate your thorough evaluation, and we are committed to addressing these suggestions promptly. We believe that incorporating these changes will significantly enhance the quality and completeness of the manuscript.
Thank you for your valuable feedback and consideration.
Best regards,
Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Close
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COMMENTS ON THIS REPORT

Author Response 05 Feb 2024

Ahmed Al-Amiery, Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia

05 Feb 2024

Author Response
Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for ... Continue reading
Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for publication. We have carefully considered your comments and suggestions, and we will address each of them below:

Figure 1 Resolution: We apologize for the low resolution of Figure 1. We will replace it with a higher resolution version to enhance its clarity and readability.

Literature Review: We acknowledge the importance of a comprehensive literature review. We will enrich the literature review section by incorporating more relevant papers, particularly recent ones, to strengthen the background and relevance of our study.

Cost Analysis: Your observation about the absence of a cost breakdown for the system components is valid. We will include a detailed table listing the costs of individual components in the conclusion section to provide transparency on the cost analysis process.

Load Demand Description: We appreciate your suggestion to provide more details on the load demand of the system. In the revised manuscript, we will include a section that describes the load demand characteristics, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the system's behavior.

Output PV Module Descriptions: We agree with your recommendation to provide more detailed descriptions of the output PV modules in the Results section. We will include additional information on the specifications and characteristics of the PV modules used in the simulation.

Reliability Criteria: Your question regarding the reliability of the system and the criteria used is crucial. In the revised manuscript, we will explicitly discuss the criteria and metrics employed to assess the reliability of the stand-alone PV system.

We appreciate your thorough evaluation, and we are committed to addressing these suggestions promptly. We believe that incorporating these changes will significantly enhance the quality and completeness of the manuscript.
Thank you for your valuable feedback and consideration.
Best regards,
Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for publication. We have carefully considered your comments and suggestions, and we will address each of them below:

Figure 1 Resolution: We apologize for the low resolution of Figure 1. We will replace it with a higher resolution version to enhance its clarity and readability.

Literature Review: We acknowledge the importance of a comprehensive literature review. We will enrich the literature review section by incorporating more relevant papers, particularly recent ones, to strengthen the background and relevance of our study.

Cost Analysis: Your observation about the absence of a cost breakdown for the system components is valid. We will include a detailed table listing the costs of individual components in the conclusion section to provide transparency on the cost analysis process.

Load Demand Description: We appreciate your suggestion to provide more details on the load demand of the system. In the revised manuscript, we will include a section that describes the load demand characteristics, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the system's behavior.

Output PV Module Descriptions: We agree with your recommendation to provide more detailed descriptions of the output PV modules in the Results section. We will include additional information on the specifications and characteristics of the PV modules used in the simulation.

Reliability Criteria: Your question regarding the reliability of the system and the criteria used is crucial. In the revised manuscript, we will explicitly discuss the criteria and metrics employed to assess the reliability of the stand-alone PV system.

We appreciate your thorough evaluation, and we are committed to addressing these suggestions promptly. We believe that incorporating these changes will significantly enhance the quality and completeness of the manuscript.
Thank you for your valuable feedback and consideration.
Best regards,
Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Close
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Reviewer Report 05 Jul 2023

Erkata Yandri, Graduate School of Renewable Energy, Universitas Darma Persada, East Jakarta, Special Capital Region of Jakarta, Indonesia

Approved with Reservations

https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.141501.r182142

Title:

In principle, the title is OK. Basically, the title is OK, but the title needs to be strengthened by adding the method used. I suggest that the title consists of purpose + method. However, the title must be adjusted to the keywords chosen. To optimize for search engines, it is better if the words in the title are no longer used for keywords, or vice versa. Please adjust accordingly.

Abstract:

Abstract is still too general and short. To make your abstract more interesting, I suggest to add some other application from this method and show the important results.

Keywords:

As suggested for title, some keywords are already in the title, so they are less effective in optimizing search engines. I suggest replacing some of the current keywords with some that aren't already in the title. To further optimize search engines, make sure the keywords are free from the words in the title.

INTRODUCTION:

In general, INTRODUCTION is too short, too simple, uninteresting and boring., but there are some notes for improvement;

From the existing Introduction, please break it down and develop it into 4 paragraphs, as follows:
- Paragraph 1: Focus on the background, starting from the energy situation and ending with the importance of utilizing renewable energy sources, one of which is solar energy.
- Paragraph 2: This is a transitional paragraph from the background in paragraph 1 to the literature review that will be discussed. You can start right away from connecting the solar energy that was alluded to at the end of paragraph 1 to solar photovoltaic. Then, develop it with developmental phenomena and interesting issues to discuss according to your topic as shown in the title.
- Paragraph 3: Focus on literature reviews according to the topic of discussion by prioritizing research papers that are highly related; with that title. Make sure the references used are more recent, or the year of publication is no more than 5 years.
- Paragraph 4: Summary of the results of the literature, explain the gaps and explain the novelties of this study. Finally, state the purpose of this study.
Ensure that Figure 1. Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems is no longer in the Introduction section. If you still need it to develop your manuscript, then move this Figure to the Methods section.
There are several references published more than 5 years ago. I suggest updating them with a more recent one.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The method section is not written with a good writing structure and flow so it is unclear and difficult to understand. I suggest to reconstruct the Method section to be more structured and interesting to understand. Please improve your Method section with the following suggestions;

You can split the current 2. Methods section or Materials and Methods section into sub-sections, such as;

2.1. Materials: please focus here on explaining all the materials or tools used, including software, etc.

2.2. Modeling and Simulation: please focus here on explaining everything about the modeling and simulation being done, including parameters, coefficients, or other assumptions or scenarios used. If there are basic calculations or theories, or modelling formula, etc., you can develop them as needed here. You can still use Figure 2 and Figure 3 with appropriate explanations, to link with the methods you developed and describe in this section.

You can use pictures or tables as appropriate to make it easier for readers to understand your explanation. You should pay attention to writing briefly and concisely, but still understandable.
No more mini literature reviews in the Material and Methods section, as you are currently doing. Literature review should be in the Introduction section, as previously suggested. Here, if you really have to include references based on pictures, figures, theories, makers, etc., then please include them as references.
The important thing, please make sure that the Material and Methods section that you develop is based on the objectives that you explained earlier in the last sentence in the 4th paragraph in the Introduction section.

RESULTS and DISCUSSION:

The information presented in RESULT and DISCUSSION is understandable, although less interesting in delivery. However, there are some notes for improvement;

There are 4 figures presented, but there are only 2 paragraphs to explain them. For that, I suggest explaining each figure with 1 paragraph. If the two figures are related, you can combine these figures into figures a and b, so that you can explain them in 1 paragraph.
Make sure the numbers or terms used in the Results and Discussion section have been displayed and explained in the Materials and Methods section.
Please provide and develop some more results based on some of the simulation results that you get, so that the topics you describe become clearer and more interesting and clearer.
For Discussion, please explain to readers at least 2-3 items for discussion, related to the results you have obtained. Please remember, here do not repeat what has been explained in the Result. However, what is important here is the implications of your results for a more interesting discussion material for the reader.
Then, in the last paragraph of the Discussion section, please briefly explain, such as; the practical application and other contributions of this research, and finish with suggestions for further research directions. Relevant and related references should be cited as necessary.

CONCLUSIONS:

The conclusion you give is still out of focus. For that, there are some suggestions;

Write a Discussion with a focus on 3-5 key findings.
Do not rewrite what was written in the previous section.
Write a brief summary of the discussion points that you have written in the discussion section

REFERENCES:

Current references can still be developed and updated. As suggested in the Introduction section, make sure the references used are more recent, or the year of publication is no more than 5 years.

ENGLISH:

I suggest that you re-check the English.

Thank you for allowing me to review this manuscript. This manuscript purposes to model, simulate, and evaluate PV islanding systems in order to increase the operational efficiency of such systems in different large and simple projects. I think this study is interesting for F1000Research readers. However, this manuscript cannot be indexed in its current condition because many things need to be improved, in addition with a fairly short, look like a draft manuscript (please refer to the comments above). So, I recommend “Rewrite Manuscript for the next review”.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

Partly
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Partly
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Not applicable
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

No
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise: Solar photovoltaic, PV performance analysis, hybrid photovoltaic and thermal collector, solar thermal collector

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Author Response 05 Feb 2024

Ahmed Al-Amiery, Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia

05 Feb 2024

Author Response

Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions ... Continue reading Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions and comments provided, and we have carefully addressed each point in the revision. Below, we outline the changes made to enhance the manuscript:
Title: We have revised the title to incorporate the method used, making it more informative and aligning with the paper's content.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems: A Simulation-Based Analysis of Self-Sufficient Solar Power for Remote, Off-Grid Communities
Abstract: We have expanded the abstract to include additional applications of the proposed method and highlight important results, addressing the need for more specificity and interest.
Keywords: Adjusted and replaced some keywords to avoid redundancy with the title and further optimize search engine results.
Photovoltaic systems, Off-grid communities, Solar energy simulation, Stand-alone PV, Battery storage, Pulse width modulation, I-V characteristics, P-V characteristics, Solar system efficiency
Introduction: The Introduction has been expanded into four paragraphs, as suggested. We have provided more details on the background, connected solar energy to photovoltaic systems, and added a transitional paragraph leading into the literature review. The literature review now focuses on more recent research papers related to the topic. Additionally, Figure 1, "Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems," has been moved to the Methods section.
Materials and Methods: The Methods section has been restructured to improve clarity and flow. It now includes sub-sections (Materials and Modeling/Simulation) to provide a more organized presentation. We have removed mini literature reviews from this section and focused on presenting materials, tools, and the modeling/simulation process.
Results and Discussion: Each figure is now explained in a separate paragraph, and the numbers or terms used are properly referenced to the Materials and Methods section. We have added more simulation results to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the topic. The discussion now includes 2-3 items related to the results, avoiding repetition from the Results section.
Conclusion: The conclusion has been revised to focus on 3-5 key findings, avoiding redundant information from previous sections.
References: We have updated and refined the references, ensuring that they are more recent and relevant to the topic.
English: The manuscript has been carefully reviewed for language, grammar, and clarity.
We believe that these revisions have significantly improved the manuscript's quality, addressing the concerns raised. We appreciate the opportunity to resubmit the revised manuscript for your consideration.
Thank you for your time and valuable feedback.
Sincerely,
Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions and comments provided, and we have carefully addressed each point in the revision. Below, we outline the changes made to enhance the manuscript:
Title: We have revised the title to incorporate the method used, making it more informative and aligning with the paper's content.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems: A Simulation-Based Analysis of Self-Sufficient Solar Power for Remote, Off-Grid Communities
Abstract: We have expanded the abstract to include additional applications of the proposed method and highlight important results, addressing the need for more specificity and interest.
Keywords: Adjusted and replaced some keywords to avoid redundancy with the title and further optimize search engine results.
Photovoltaic systems, Off-grid communities, Solar energy simulation, Stand-alone PV, Battery storage, Pulse width modulation, I-V characteristics, P-V characteristics, Solar system efficiency
Introduction: The Introduction has been expanded into four paragraphs, as suggested. We have provided more details on the background, connected solar energy to photovoltaic systems, and added a transitional paragraph leading into the literature review. The literature review now focuses on more recent research papers related to the topic. Additionally, Figure 1, "Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems," has been moved to the Methods section.
Materials and Methods: The Methods section has been restructured to improve clarity and flow. It now includes sub-sections (Materials and Modeling/Simulation) to provide a more organized presentation. We have removed mini literature reviews from this section and focused on presenting materials, tools, and the modeling/simulation process.
Results and Discussion: Each figure is now explained in a separate paragraph, and the numbers or terms used are properly referenced to the Materials and Methods section. We have added more simulation results to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the topic. The discussion now includes 2-3 items related to the results, avoiding repetition from the Results section.
Conclusion: The conclusion has been revised to focus on 3-5 key findings, avoiding redundant information from previous sections.
References: We have updated and refined the references, ensuring that they are more recent and relevant to the topic.
English: The manuscript has been carefully reviewed for language, grammar, and clarity.
We believe that these revisions have significantly improved the manuscript's quality, addressing the concerns raised. We appreciate the opportunity to resubmit the revised manuscript for your consideration.
Thank you for your time and valuable feedback.
Sincerely,
Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Close
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COMMENTS ON THIS REPORT

Author Response 05 Feb 2024

Ahmed Al-Amiery, Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia

05 Feb 2024

Author Response

Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions ... Continue reading Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions and comments provided, and we have carefully addressed each point in the revision. Below, we outline the changes made to enhance the manuscript:
Title: We have revised the title to incorporate the method used, making it more informative and aligning with the paper's content.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems: A Simulation-Based Analysis of Self-Sufficient Solar Power for Remote, Off-Grid Communities
Abstract: We have expanded the abstract to include additional applications of the proposed method and highlight important results, addressing the need for more specificity and interest.
Keywords: Adjusted and replaced some keywords to avoid redundancy with the title and further optimize search engine results.
Photovoltaic systems, Off-grid communities, Solar energy simulation, Stand-alone PV, Battery storage, Pulse width modulation, I-V characteristics, P-V characteristics, Solar system efficiency
Introduction: The Introduction has been expanded into four paragraphs, as suggested. We have provided more details on the background, connected solar energy to photovoltaic systems, and added a transitional paragraph leading into the literature review. The literature review now focuses on more recent research papers related to the topic. Additionally, Figure 1, "Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems," has been moved to the Methods section.
Materials and Methods: The Methods section has been restructured to improve clarity and flow. It now includes sub-sections (Materials and Modeling/Simulation) to provide a more organized presentation. We have removed mini literature reviews from this section and focused on presenting materials, tools, and the modeling/simulation process.
Results and Discussion: Each figure is now explained in a separate paragraph, and the numbers or terms used are properly referenced to the Materials and Methods section. We have added more simulation results to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the topic. The discussion now includes 2-3 items related to the results, avoiding repetition from the Results section.
Conclusion: The conclusion has been revised to focus on 3-5 key findings, avoiding redundant information from previous sections.
References: We have updated and refined the references, ensuring that they are more recent and relevant to the topic.
English: The manuscript has been carefully reviewed for language, grammar, and clarity.
We believe that these revisions have significantly improved the manuscript's quality, addressing the concerns raised. We appreciate the opportunity to resubmit the revised manuscript for your consideration.
Thank you for your time and valuable feedback.
Sincerely,
Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions and comments provided, and we have carefully addressed each point in the revision. Below, we outline the changes made to enhance the manuscript:
Title: We have revised the title to incorporate the method used, making it more informative and aligning with the paper's content.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems: A Simulation-Based Analysis of Self-Sufficient Solar Power for Remote, Off-Grid Communities
Abstract: We have expanded the abstract to include additional applications of the proposed method and highlight important results, addressing the need for more specificity and interest.
Keywords: Adjusted and replaced some keywords to avoid redundancy with the title and further optimize search engine results.
Photovoltaic systems, Off-grid communities, Solar energy simulation, Stand-alone PV, Battery storage, Pulse width modulation, I-V characteristics, P-V characteristics, Solar system efficiency
Introduction: The Introduction has been expanded into four paragraphs, as suggested. We have provided more details on the background, connected solar energy to photovoltaic systems, and added a transitional paragraph leading into the literature review. The literature review now focuses on more recent research papers related to the topic. Additionally, Figure 1, "Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems," has been moved to the Methods section.
Materials and Methods: The Methods section has been restructured to improve clarity and flow. It now includes sub-sections (Materials and Modeling/Simulation) to provide a more organized presentation. We have removed mini literature reviews from this section and focused on presenting materials, tools, and the modeling/simulation process.
Results and Discussion: Each figure is now explained in a separate paragraph, and the numbers or terms used are properly referenced to the Materials and Methods section. We have added more simulation results to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the topic. The discussion now includes 2-3 items related to the results, avoiding repetition from the Results section.
Conclusion: The conclusion has been revised to focus on 3-5 key findings, avoiding redundant information from previous sections.
References: We have updated and refined the references, ensuring that they are more recent and relevant to the topic.
English: The manuscript has been carefully reviewed for language, grammar, and clarity.
We believe that these revisions have significantly improved the manuscript's quality, addressing the concerns raised. We appreciate the opportunity to resubmit the revised manuscript for your consideration.
Thank you for your time and valuable feedback.
Sincerely,
Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Close
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Version 2

VERSION 2 PUBLISHED 05 Feb 2024

Revised

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Version 1

VERSION 1 PUBLISHED 20 Dec 2022

Discussion is closed on this version, please comment on the latest version above.

Reader Comment 09 Feb 2023

Rathnasamy Rangasamygounder, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, India

09 Feb 2023

Reader Comment

A bird's eye view shows that it is a very basic work of simulation in Matlab. The I-V, P-V characteristics are unique (in general). No real experimental data generated nor ... Continue reading A bird's eye view shows that it is a very basic work of simulation in Matlab. The I-V, P-V characteristics are unique (in general). No real experimental data generated nor the other data used for validation.

It is getting boring to read or do analysis based on these data presented here. However, the authors' effort to publish an article is highly appreciated.
A bird's eye view shows that it is a very basic work of simulation in Matlab. The I-V, P-V characteristics are unique (in general). No real experimental data generated nor the other data used for validation.

It is getting boring to read or do analysis based on these data presented here. However, the authors' effort to publish an article is highly appreciated.
Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Close
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Discussion is closed on this version, please comment on the latest version above.

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Version 2 (revision) 05 Feb 24			read	read
Version 1 20 Dec 22	read	read

Erkata Yandri, Universitas Darma Persada, East Jakarta, Indonesia
Hussein Mohammed Ridha, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
CHANDRA SHEKHAR RAJORIA, Engineering College Bikaner, Bikaner, India
Muhammad Ramzan Saeed Ashraf Janjua, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan

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3 Views

11 Feb 2025 | for Version 2

Muhammad Ramzan Saeed Ashraf Janjua, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan

3 Views Cite this report Responses(0)

Approved With Reservations

This manuscript can be interesting for readers and it will fit the scope of journal. I would like to suggest major revision and re-review. I have following points:

The title needs to be re-written. Not appealing in current form.
The authors should discuss their results in the context of what is already known with specific comparisons to the literature. And regarding energy materials, several important references are missing; 10.1002/ente.202101096; 10.1007/s10825-021-01838-w; 10.1246/bcsj.20130146
Regarding opto-electronic applications, conjugation, resonance effects, several important references for the broad readership are missing and should be part of introduction. To cater further citations for the journal itself, inclusion of important, recent and relevant literature is pre-requisite before the final acceptance. Authors are advised to read and consider the following references to maintain the interest of the readers; 10.1071/CH10094; 10.1002/ejic.201000428; 10.1246/bcsj.20130146; 10.1002/ente.202101096; 10.1016/j.jpcs.2022.110996; 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.1c01760
Regarding HOMO–LUMO gaps and the energy differences, HOMO and LUMO needs a critical discussion in the revised manuscript. Some papers are important to read; 10.1007/s10825-021-01838-w; 10.1002/ente.202101096; 10.1007/s10876-017-1287-9; 10.1080/08927022.2017.1332413
It will be attractive for readers, if authors will summarize the whole study in the form of a picture.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

No
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Yes
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Yes
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

Yes
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

References

Competing Interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise

DFT; NLO; Solar Cells

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13 Views

16 Sep 2024 | for Version 2

CHANDRA SHEKHAR RAJORIA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engineering College Bikaner, Bikaner, India

13 Views Cite this report Responses(0)

Approved With Reservations

The article presents an analysis in which a self-sufficient PV system is designed for off grid community. The paper is now in a much-improved form.

The introduction part is organized and seems well connected with the title of the paper.
The quality of figures is good and readable. The sentences are simple and easy to understand.
What is the peak output of the PV module (kW_p)? A complete PV module specification in tabular form must be provided.
For what load, the whole exercise is done? Why the battery size is limited to one?
If the system is designed for remote off grid community, then how will it be contributing in terms of units of electricity generated?
The simulated results are useful only when they comply with the real situation. A self-sufficient PV system must fulfill the basic requirement of the prescribed community. How the system will cater for the electrical requirement of the remote off-grid community in terms of lighting and other utilities like fans, TV, computer etc.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

Partly
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Partly
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Partly
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

No
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

Competing Interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise

BiPVT systems, Solar Thermal Systems, Renewable energy, Power plants

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16 Views

16 Aug 2023 | for Version 1

Hussein Mohammed Ridha, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia

16 Views Cite this report Responses(1)

Approved With Reservations

Figure 1 should be replaced with a higher resolution quality.
More papers need to be included in the literature.
Hence, the authors mentioned the cost analysis in the conclusion. However, I have not seen any table lists the cost of the components of the system. Then, how the cost analysis is performed?
The load demand of the system should be indicated and described.
More descriptions on the output PV modules should be included in the result section.
Finally, how the authors describe the reliability of the system? Which criteria are used.

Once the authors consider the previous comments, the submitted paper can be appropriate for publication.

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

Partly
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Partly
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Partly
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

Partly
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

Competing Interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise

Optimal design and of the standalone PV system, Parameter extraction of the PV models, MOO, and MCDM.

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Author Response

05 Feb 2024

Ahmed Al-Amiery, Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia

Dear Dr. Hussein Mohammed Ridha,
Thank you for your thoughtful and constructive feedback on our manuscript. We appreciate your positive acknowledgment of the paper's interesting topic and potential suitability for publication. We have carefully considered your comments and suggestions, and we will address each of them below:

Figure 1 Resolution: We apologize for the low resolution of Figure 1. We will replace it with a higher resolution version to enhance its clarity and readability.
Literature Review: We acknowledge the importance of a comprehensive literature review. We will enrich the literature review section by incorporating more relevant papers, particularly recent ones, to strengthen the background and relevance of our study.
Cost Analysis: Your observation about the absence of a cost breakdown for the system components is valid. We will include a detailed table listing the costs of individual components in the conclusion section to provide transparency on the cost analysis process.
Load Demand Description: We appreciate your suggestion to provide more details on the load demand of the system. In the revised manuscript, we will include a section that describes the load demand characteristics, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the system's behavior.
Output PV Module Descriptions: We agree with your recommendation to provide more detailed descriptions of the output PV modules in the Results section. We will include additional information on the specifications and characteristics of the PV modules used in the simulation.
Reliability Criteria: Your question regarding the reliability of the system and the criteria used is crucial. In the revised manuscript, we will explicitly discuss the criteria and metrics employed to assess the reliability of the stand-alone PV system.

We appreciate your thorough evaluation, and we are committed to addressing these suggestions promptly. We believe that incorporating these changes will significantly enhance the quality and completeness of the manuscript.
Thank you for your valuable feedback and consideration.
Best regards,

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Competing Interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

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22 Views

05 Jul 2023 | for Version 1

Erkata Yandri, Graduate School of Renewable Energy, Universitas Darma Persada, East Jakarta, Special Capital Region of Jakarta, Indonesia

22 Views Cite this report Responses(1)

Approved With Reservations

From the existing Introduction, please break it down and develop it into 4 paragraphs, as follows:
- Paragraph 1: Focus on the background, starting from the energy situation and ending with the importance of utilizing renewable energy sources, one of which is solar energy.
- Paragraph 2: This is a transitional paragraph from the background in paragraph 1 to the literature review that will be discussed. You can start right away from connecting the solar energy that was alluded to at the end of paragraph 1 to solar photovoltaic. Then, develop it with developmental phenomena and interesting issues to discuss according to your topic as shown in the title.
- Paragraph 3: Focus on literature reviews according to the topic of discussion by prioritizing research papers that are highly related; with that title. Make sure the references used are more recent, or the year of publication is no more than 5 years.
- Paragraph 4: Summary of the results of the literature, explain the gaps and explain the novelties of this study. Finally, state the purpose of this study.
Ensure that Figure 1. Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems is no longer in the Introduction section. If you still need it to develop your manuscript, then move this Figure to the Methods section.
There are several references published more than 5 years ago. I suggest updating them with a more recent one.

You can split the current 2. Methods section or Materials and Methods section into sub-sections, such as;

You can use pictures or tables as appropriate to make it easier for readers to understand your explanation. You should pay attention to writing briefly and concisely, but still understandable.
No more mini literature reviews in the Material and Methods section, as you are currently doing. Literature review should be in the Introduction section, as previously suggested. Here, if you really have to include references based on pictures, figures, theories, makers, etc., then please include them as references.
The important thing, please make sure that the Material and Methods section that you develop is based on the objectives that you explained earlier in the last sentence in the 4th paragraph in the Introduction section.

RESULTS and DISCUSSION:

The information presented in RESULT and DISCUSSION is understandable, although less interesting in delivery. However, there are some notes for improvement;

There are 4 figures presented, but there are only 2 paragraphs to explain them. For that, I suggest explaining each figure with 1 paragraph. If the two figures are related, you can combine these figures into figures a and b, so that you can explain them in 1 paragraph.
Make sure the numbers or terms used in the Results and Discussion section have been displayed and explained in the Materials and Methods section.
Please provide and develop some more results based on some of the simulation results that you get, so that the topics you describe become clearer and more interesting and clearer.
For Discussion, please explain to readers at least 2-3 items for discussion, related to the results you have obtained. Please remember, here do not repeat what has been explained in the Result. However, what is important here is the implications of your results for a more interesting discussion material for the reader.
Then, in the last paragraph of the Discussion section, please briefly explain, such as; the practical application and other contributions of this research, and finish with suggestions for further research directions. Relevant and related references should be cited as necessary.

CONCLUSIONS:

The conclusion you give is still out of focus. For that, there are some suggestions;

Write a Discussion with a focus on 3-5 key findings.
Do not rewrite what was written in the previous section.
Write a brief summary of the discussion points that you have written in the discussion section

Is the work clearly and accurately presented and does it cite the current literature?

Partly
Is the study design appropriate and is the work technically sound?

Partly
Are sufficient details of methods and analysis provided to allow replication by others?

Partly
If applicable, is the statistical analysis and its interpretation appropriate?

Not applicable
Are all the source data underlying the results available to ensure full reproducibility?

No
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the results?

Partly

Competing Interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

Reviewer Expertise

Solar photovoltaic, PV performance analysis, hybrid photovoltaic and thermal collector, solar thermal collector

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Author Response

05 Feb 2024

Ahmed Al-Amiery, Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology-Iraq, Bangi, 43600, Malaysia

Dear Dr. Erkata Yandri,
Thank you for your valuable feedback on our manuscript entitled "Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community." We appreciate the detailed suggestions and comments provided, and we have carefully addressed each point in the revision. Below, we outline the changes made to enhance the manuscript:
Title: We have revised the title to incorporate the method used, making it more informative and aligning with the paper's content.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems: A Simulation-Based Analysis of Self-Sufficient Solar Power for Remote, Off-Grid Communities
Abstract: We have expanded the abstract to include additional applications of the proposed method and highlight important results, addressing the need for more specificity and interest.
Keywords: Adjusted and replaced some keywords to avoid redundancy with the title and further optimize search engine results.
Photovoltaic systems, Off-grid communities, Solar energy simulation, Stand-alone PV, Battery storage, Pulse width modulation, I-V characteristics, P-V characteristics, Solar system efficiency
Introduction: The Introduction has been expanded into four paragraphs, as suggested. We have provided more details on the background, connected solar energy to photovoltaic systems, and added a transitional paragraph leading into the literature review. The literature review now focuses on more recent research papers related to the topic. Additionally, Figure 1, "Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems," has been moved to the Methods section.
Materials and Methods: The Methods section has been restructured to improve clarity and flow. It now includes sub-sections (Materials and Modeling/Simulation) to provide a more organized presentation. We have removed mini literature reviews from this section and focused on presenting materials, tools, and the modeling/simulation process.
Results and Discussion: Each figure is now explained in a separate paragraph, and the numbers or terms used are properly referenced to the Materials and Methods section. We have added more simulation results to provide a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the topic. The discussion now includes 2-3 items related to the results, avoiding repetition from the Results section.
Conclusion: The conclusion has been revised to focus on 3-5 key findings, avoiding redundant information from previous sections.
References: We have updated and refined the references, ensuring that they are more recent and relevant to the topic.
English: The manuscript has been carefully reviewed for language, grammar, and clarity.
We believe that these revisions have significantly improved the manuscript's quality, addressing the concerns raised. We appreciate the opportunity to resubmit the revised manuscript for your consideration.
Thank you for your time and valuable feedback.
Sincerely,

View more View less

Competing Interests

No competing interests were disclosed.

Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article:

Approved - the paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested

Approved with reservations - A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit.

Not approved - fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions

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Analysis of a self-sufficient photovoltaic system for a remote, off-grid community

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keywords

Revised Amendments from Version 1

Introduction

Figure 1. Benefits of DC, AC, and hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations of stand-alone PV systems.

Methods

System configuration

Modeling and simulation

Figure 2. MATLAB model depicting the stand-alone PV system with 36 individual solar.

Figure 3. Simulated I-V and P-V characteristics using MATLAB.

Results and discussion

Figure 4. Both current and power indications as functions of supplied voltage in the modelled PV arrays.

Figure 5. Both current and power indications as functions of supplied voltage in the modelled PV arrays at 25 °C and 40 °C.

Figure 6. Supplied solar irradiance data during sunny and rainy days as a function of time.

Figure 7. State of charge, voltage, and current simulation states of the battery during sunny days (straight line) and rainy days (dashed lines).

Output PV module characteristics

Reliability assessment of the stand-alone PV system: Criteria and metrics

Load demand characteristics

Conclusion

Table 1. Cost analysis of stand-alone PV system components.

Ethical approval and consent

Data availability

References

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