Bat inspired algorithm for sizing optimization of grid-connected photovoltaic system

This paper presents a Bat Algorithm (BA) for sizing optimization of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic (GCPV) system. BA was used to search for the optimal photovoltaic (PV) module and inverter from their respective databases such that the expected Specific Yield (SY) in kWh per kWp could be maximized. In addition, the sizing process also involves the dimensioning of PV array and matching of PV array to the inverter input voltage and current limits The results showed that the BA produced similar optimal SY with the one produced using a conventional iterative approach which serves as a benchmark. On the other hand, BA had also outperformed Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) in producing higher SY and lower computation time.