The physical integration of a battery system to the back of PV module provides solutions to the changing demands of the residential solar energy market. The PV-Battery Integrated Module (PBIM) concept is proposed and equips energy-users with a modular and user friendly solar system. With each PV panel equipped with its exclusive balance of system components, the PBIM aims to rival conventional solar home systems on an economic basis. With a potential to offer savings on the installation process and removing the need to customize every residential solar system the use of PBIM is a promising step towards the widespread implementation of solar systems.


This project contributes towards the PBIM design by exploring the effects of energy storage motivations and ambient conditions on the optimal PBIM energy storage capabilities and the subsequent impact on its performance as whole. To quantify these impacts realistic case studies are developed and test the PBIM's capabilities in Costa Rica and the Netherlands. The PBIM, for each location, was assessed for its application in a grid-tied system for peak shaving applications and its performance as a stand-alone solution.\\

As compared to conventional solar systems, the PBIM operates at higher temperatures, influencing the performance and lifetime of the incorporated components. This thesis commences by capturing the effects of elevated operating temperatures through the development of a PBIM model. The energy control strategy is devised to simulate the battery charging profiles for the identified applications. Location specific parameters are then implemented to asses the PBIM performance and the influence of different climates.

A sizing methodology is used to derive the appropriate battery capacity for each case study. A comparison is made between the dynamic characteristics of the optimally sized system for each of the locations, indicating the fulfillment of the respective system objectives, minimizing battery degradation and maximizing autarky. Furthermore, the technical and economic feasibility of the PBIM concept is assessed with respect to a conventional solar home system, leading to the conclusion that the PBIM, at this point in time, possesses technical characteristics comparable to that of a convectional PV system. The PBIM concept is still in the early stages of development and there are still many challenges that need to be overcome before its widespread usage.