The majority of commercially available electrical energy is generated through the burning of fossil fuels. This process introduces carbon into the atmosphere and thus contributes to a growing environmental crisis. Carbon-neutral energy sources such as photovoltaic panels provide a viable alternative to energy consumers. However, designing a residential photovoltaic generation and storage system is currently an intimidating problem to anyone without a background in electronics. An intuitive method of residential photovoltaic system simulation and analysis would allow an average homeowner to properly design such a system while considering its potential costs and benefits.
The current work focuses on development of a photovoltaic system simulation using MATLAB and Simulink. Commercially available photovoltaic system components were modeled and included in this simulation. Seasonal weather conditions and their effects on power generation were taken into account. Typical household loads were modeled. Various system topologies were explored and comparative cost/benefit system analyses were performed.