A multiobjective optimization model for optimal placement of solar collectors

Abstract

The aim and objective of this research is to formulate and solve a multi-objective optimization problem for the optimal placement of multiple rows and multiple columns of fixed flat-plate solar collectors in a field. This is to maximize energy collected from the solar collectors and minimize the investment in terms of the field and collector cost. The resulting multi-objective optimization problem will be solved using genetic algorithm techniques. It is necessary to consider multiple columns of collectors as this can result in obtaining higher amounts of energy from these collectors when costs and maintenance or replacement of damaged parts are concerned. The formulation of such a problem is dependent on several factors, which include shading of collectors, inclination of collectors, distance between the collectors, latitude of location and the global solar radiation (direct beam and diffuse components). This leads to a multi-objective optimization problem. These kind of problems arise often in nature and can be difficult to solve. However the use of evolutionary algorithm techniques has proven effective in solving these kind of problems. Optimizing the distance between the collector rows, the distance between the collector columns and the collector inclination angle, can increase the amount of energy collected from a field of solar collectors thereby maximizing profit and improving return on investment. In this research, the multi-objective optimization problem is solved using two optimization approaches based on genetic algorithms. The first approach is the weighted sum approach where the multi-objective problem is simplified into a single objective optimization problem while the second approach is finding the Pareto front.