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A novel and low-cost mechanism for comprehensive PV fault diagnosis using optocouplers

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  • Habib, Kashif
  • Ehsan, Muhammad Sarwar
  • Murtaza, Ali Faisal

Abstract

Photovoltaic Systems (PVS), the key contributor towards clean energy, are highly prone to DC faults, leading to potential energy losses, lifespan reduction, and safety risks. Accurate fault detection, classification, and localization (FDCL) is thus critical for reliable PVS operation. This work proposes a novel idea of comprehensive DC-side FDCL of PV arrays by only utilizing low-cost opto-couplers. Opto-couplers are strategically placed with modules and blocking diodes, and their digital states are used to develop a combinational algorithm. The algorithm effectively identifies the faults, classifies them, and then signals for tripping with minimal disruption. The supportive simulation results show a clear confirmation of the idea. With simplicity, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, the presented method poses high potential for integration into a PV system without a notable impact on production cost and system size.

Suggested Citation

  • Habib, Kashif & Ehsan, Muhammad Sarwar & Murtaza, Ali Faisal, 2026. "A novel and low-cost mechanism for comprehensive PV fault diagnosis using optocouplers," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 261(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:261:y:2026:i:c:s0960148126000935
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2026.125268
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