Institutional Project FESB

About the Project

SURFER

Photovoltaic Power Plant Management Systems

The project is focused on optimizing electricity production and increasing energy efficiency in photovoltaic power plants through the development of advanced monitoring and control systems. In the first year, simulations of different energy converter topologies with integrated storage systems are planned, along with the development of corresponding control algorithms. At the same time, extensive measurements of electrical, thermal, and mechanical parameters of photovoltaic modules will be carried out, together with the collection of meteorological data and information on shading and soiling using monitoring cameras.
Based on the collected data, in the second year prototypes of monitoring devices and a central system for data acquisition and processing will be developed. The goal is to identify the minimal set of key parameters required for assessing the state of the power plant, reduce unnecessary measurements, and optimize communication requirements within the system. Possibilities for controlling the detection and disconnection of faulty modules, as well as maximum power point adjustment, will be investigated. In the third year, machine learning algorithms will be applied for automatic classification of module conditions based on image data from monitoring cameras, along with the development of technical prototypes of monitoring units. In the fourth year, experimental validation of the developed systems in real operating conditions is planned, including testing efficiency under partial shading, soiling, and the application of passive cooling techniques using phase-change materials to improve efficiency.

Goals

Project Goals

C1. Improve monitoring methods for photovoltaic power plant parameters

This objective is linked to program indicators PP1 and PP2, as:

- The obtained results will be published in scientific papers indexed in Scopus and WoS databases

- One researcher funded from dedicated/own resources will participate in the activities under this objective

C2. Develop a prototype device for controlling photovoltaic power plant operation

This objective is linked to program indicators PP4 and PP5, as:

- An applied research project will be submitted for the development of the device

- A technology and knowledge transfer project will be initiated

C3. Develop machine learning algorithms for classification of photovoltaic power plant conditions

This objective is linked to program indicators PP1 and PP6, as:

- The obtained results will be published in scientific papers indexed in Scopus and WoS databases

- The research will be presented in a popular science lecture

C4. Develop a prototype semiconductor power converter with an integrated storage system

This objective is linked to program indicators PP1 and PP5, as:

- The obtained results will be published in scientific papers indexed in Scopus and WoS databases

- A technology and knowledge transfer project will be initiated

C5. Develop passive cooling techniques for photovoltaic modules using phase-change materials

This objective is linked to program indicators PP1 and PP3, as:

- The obtained results will be published in scientific papers indexed in Scopus and WoS databases

- An interdisciplinary scientific project will be submitted for the development of the solution

Work Packages

WP1

Investigation of losses in photovoltaic systems

Soiling of modules is one of the key factors negatively affecting the efficiency of solar-to-electric energy conversion. The aim of this work package is to quantify the impact of different types of soiling (dust, pollen, bird droppings, industrial aerosols) on PV module performance under real conditions, thereby improving monitoring methods for photovoltaic power plants (objective C1). Field measurements and laboratory testing will be conducted, along with the development of models linking soiling intensity to power output reduction. The results will support the definition of optimal cleaning strategies and surface condition monitoring.

WP2

Development of advanced systems for PV plant operation control

The aim of this work package is to design and develop a comprehensive system for controlling PV plant operation that integrates data on production, environmental conditions, and system status in real time (objective C2). The system will use sensor networks, communication modules, and a centralized platform for data acquisition and processing. Special focus will be placed on automated decision-making related to production optimization, fault detection, and response to grid conditions. A scalable solution adaptable to different PV system sizes and configurations is expected.

WP3

Development of machine learning algorithms for PV plant operation

Managing complex systems such as PV plants requires intelligent algorithms capable of recognizing behavioral patterns, predicting production changes, and responding to disturbances in a timely manner. In this work package, machine learning algorithms will be developed based on data collected in previous packages (objective C3). Particular emphasis will be placed on predictive energy production models, anomaly detection, and optimization of system operation under variable solar irradiance and grid load conditions.

WP4

Development of a semiconductor power converter with integrated storage

Stable and reliable operation of a PV plant requires efficient DC-to-AC conversion and the ability to temporarily store energy to balance short-term mismatches between production and consumption. Within this package, a high-efficiency power converter with integrated energy storage capability will be developed (objective C4). The focus will be on designing energy-efficient components and developing control algorithms.

WP5

Development of passive cooling techniques for photovoltaic modules

This work package is dedicated to developing passive cooling techniques for photovoltaic modules to improve energy conversion efficiency. Special emphasis is placed on the use of phase-change materials (PCM), which can store heat during the day and release it gradually, reducing module operating temperature and mitigating thermal degradation effects. Activities include selecting suitable PCM materials, experimental testing of different passive cooling configurations, and analyzing their performance under real operating conditions, including variations in irradiance, ambient temperature, shading, and soiling. The goal is to develop a simple, efficient, and energy-independent solution that can be integrated into existing or new PV systems without additional energy consumption or complex technical modifications (objective C5).

Project Team

Project Leader: Assoc. Prof. Duje Čoko, PhD

Duje Čoko

Project Leader

Mateo Bašić

Researcher

Tihomir Betti

Researcher

Spomenka Bovan

Researcher

Ivan Čorić

Researcher

Tea Erceg

Researcher

Ivan Grgić

Researcher

Sebastian Karl Mladen Haupt

Researcher

Ante Kristić

Researcher

Ivan Marasović

Researcher

Sandro Nižetić

Researcher

Vesna Pekić

Researcher

Marina Prvan

Researcher

Dinko Vukadinović

Researcher

Antonio Vuletić

Researcher

Contact

For all inquiries related to the SURFER project, please contact the project leader:

Assoc. Prof. Duje Čoko, PhD Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture
University of Split
Ruđera Boškovića 32, 21000 Split, Croatia

E-mail: Duje.Coko@fesb.hr