Solar Array Fault Detection using Neural Networks

In this paper, we describe a Cyber-Physical system approach to fault detection in Photovoltaic (PV) arrays. More specifically, we explore customized neural network algorithms for fault detection from monitoring devices that sense data and actuate at each individual panel. We develop a framework for the use of feedforward neural networks for fault detection and identification. Our approach promises to improve efficiency by detecting and identifying eight different faults and commonly occurring conditions that affect power output in utility scale PV arrays.