Optimal extraction of solar cell parameters using pattern search

This paper presents an application of pattern search optimization technique for extracting the parameters of different solar cell models. These models are single diode, double diode, and photovoltaic module. The solar cell parameters estimation is viewed and formulated as a multivariate non-linear optimization problem. The proposed technique is used to solve a transcendental function that governs the current-voltage relationship of a solar cell, as no direct general analytical solution exists. Several cases were investigated to test and validate the consistency of accurately estimating various parameters of different solar cell models. Comparison among different parameter estimation techniques is presented to show the effectiveness of the developed approach. Moreover, error and statistical analyses are carried out to measure the accuracy of the estimated parameters and model suitability. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.