Analytical Solution to Nonlinear Photovoltaic Diode Equation

Abstract

Mathematical photovoltaic models are described by nonlinear equations which require iterative methods to
obtain solutions. To curb computational complexity, this research presents an analytical method which
estimates accurately, the model parameters of photovoltaic modules from the datasheet provided by
manufacturers. This work adopts the general photovoltaic diode equation and introduces a new equation
to solve for series resistance of the single diode photovoltaic system. Series resistance was determined at
the maximum power point. The shunt resistance, photocurrent and saturation current were also determined.
Results from the present analytical method are validated with those from other complex numerical methods
in terms of computation. The results serve as a benchmark for experimental photovoltaic characterization.