Das Projekt "Universelles PV-Steuerungssystem" wird vom Umweltbundesamt gefördert und von WIP, Wirtschaft und Infrastruktur GmbH & Co Planungs-KG durchgeführt. General Information: PROJECT OBJECTIVES: The proposed activities aim at developing the first two prototypes of a Universal Photovoltaic Management System (UPMS) based on two selected standard sizes for application in hybrid PV power plants. The basic aims are to achieve substantial cost reduction and reliability improvements over the past conventional balance of system (BOS) configurations. This UPMS concept combines in one container all power electronics, energy management unit, and their cabling necessary to control, regulate power, and monitor a complete hybrid PV plant. Cost reduction and reliability improvements are possible because all of the critical BOS hardware and wiring are integrated in one box, resulting in use of common parts, cheaper transportation, installation, testing, and maintenance. Technical Approach: The technical approach is to develop two basic types of Universal PV Management System (UPMS) which are briefly described below as Types A and B: -Type A: This is intended as a modular standardized size to be used in low-power hybrid PV power plant, installed near the user's or owner's residence, with a standard ac output rating of 3 kVA, PV array sized at 1.5 kW, and battery capacity of 600 Ah. All power electronics, power distribution switching and protective devices, monitoring capability, and energy management systems are completely packaged inside one container. The power sources, one solar irradiance sensor and the residential loads are the only connections to this UPMS. -Type B: This is also modularized and standardized but for larger power applications such as centralized village power source. The standard ratings selected are ac output rating of 15 kVA, PV array sized up to 10kW, and battery capacity of 1,500 Ah. The packaging of the UPMS is the same as Type A. The system would be located at a central point in the village. Expected Achievements and Exploitation: The project will result in the development of two prototypes of a universal PV management system (UPMS) based on two selected standard sizes for application in hybrid PV plants. The basic aims are to achieve significant cost reduction and reliability improvements over the past BOS configuration. All key R and D results will be presented in conferences and key technologies developed will be reported to other EU partners. Prime Contractor: Aplicaciones Tecnicas de la Energia SA, Madrid/Spain.