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Failure analysis in smart grid solar integration using an extended decision-making-based FMEA model under uncertain environment

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Abstract

Failures in the integration of solar energy into smart grids can have significant implications for energy reliability and environmental sustainability, resulting in a greater dependence on conventional energy sources and increased carbon emissions. These failures can impact system functionality, efficiency, and long-term cost savings. Therefore, failure analysis plays a crucial role in identifying the underlying causes, devising appropriate solutions, and enhancing the performance of solar integration within smart grid systems. The conventional method of failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is widely utilized to identify failure modes in various processes. However, the Risk Priority Number (RPN) scoring system employed in FMEA has faced criticism due to its limitations. To overcome this challenge, our hybrid FMEA approach integrates cost and time considerations into the RPN calculation, thereby enhancing the assessment of failure factors. In the second step of our methodology, we utilize the Spherical Fuzzy Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SF-SWARA) technique and expert insights to determine the weightage of the five underlying factors. Lastly, in the third phase, we propose the Spherical Fuzzy Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (SF-WASPAS) method to prioritize risks based on the outcomes of the previous phases, while taking into account the uncertainty in the determinants and assigning varying weights to them. According to SF-WASPAS, the highest-rated failure is connectivity and cybersecurity, underscoring the critical importance of ensuring secure and reliable connections in solar systems. Additionally, the FMEA results indicate that overheating or fire ranks as the most significant risk, emphasizing the need for effective fire prevention and mitigation strategies.

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Data availability

No datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.

Abbreviations

FMEA:

Failure mode and effects analysis

SF-WASPAS:

Spherical Fuzzy Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment

SF-SWARA:

Spherical Fuzzy Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis

SV:

Score value

LVs:

Linguistic variables

AMI:

Absolutely More Importance

VHI:

Very High Importance

HI:

High Importance

SMI:

Slightly More Importance

EI:

Equally Importance

SLI:

Slightly Low Importance

LI:

Low Importance

VLI:

Very Low Importance

SFS:

Spherical Fuzzy Sets

PV:

Photovoltaic

MPPT:

Mximum power point tracking

PR:

Performance ratio

GIS:

Geographical Information Systems

AHP:

Analytic Hierarchy Process

BOS:

Balance of system

DM:

Decision-maker

MCDM:

Multi-criteria decision-making

SFNs:

Substitute function networks

WPM:

Weighted Product Method

SAW:

Simple Additive Weighting

RPN:

Risk Priority Number

FTA:

Fault Tree Analysis

WSM:

Weighted Sum Method

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute for the Future of Knowledge (IFK), The University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

    Mohammad Reza Maghami & Arthur Guseni Oliver Mutambara

  2. Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Urmia University of Technology, Urmia, Iran

    Sahand Vahabzadeh & Saeid Jafarzadeh Ghoushchi

  3. School of Electrical and Information Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa

    Chandima Gomes

Authors
  1. Mohammad Reza Maghami
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  2. Sahand Vahabzadeh
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  3. Arthur Guseni Oliver Mutambara
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  4. Saeid Jafarzadeh Ghoushchi
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  5. Chandima Gomes
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Contributions

Conceptualization: M.R.M., A.G.O.M. and C.G; Methodology: S.V. and S.J.G.; Formal analysis and investigation: S.V. and A.G.O.M.; Writing—original draft preparation: S.J.G. and M.R.M.; Writing—review and editing: M.R.M., S.V., S.J.G. and C.G.

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Correspondence to Saeid Jafarzadeh Ghoushchi.

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Appendix

Appendix

Failure Mode

Description

Overheat, Fire and Hotspot

This failure mode refers to the occurrence of excessive heat generation, fire incidents, and localized hotspots in the solar grid connection. It highlights the importance of proper installation, maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols to prevent and minimize the risk of fires.

Lightning Damage

This failure mode involves damage caused by lightning strikes. Lightning can induce high voltage surges that may damage solar system components. Implementing lightning protection measures is crucial to mitigate this risk.

Voltage Violation

Voltage violation refers to deviations from acceptable voltage levels in the solar grid connection. It is important to maintain stable voltage within the specified range to ensure reliable and efficient operation of the system.

Grounding Issues

Grounding issues pertain to problems with the grounding system in the solar grid connection. Proper grounding is essential for electrical safety and to prevent electrical faults and equipment damage.

Harmonic Failure

Harmonic failure occurs when there are excessive harmonics in the electrical system. Harmonics can cause system malfunctions and affect the performance of connected devices. Implementing harmonic filters and ensuring compliance with harmonic standards can mitigate this issue.

Equipment Failure

Equipment failure encompasses the failure of components or equipment within the solar grid connection. This can include failures in inverters, transformers, or other system components. Regular maintenance, proper component selection, and monitoring are essential to minimize equipment failures.

Wiring Faults

Wiring faults refer to faulty or improper wiring connections within the solar grid connection. Poorly connected or damaged wires can lead to power losses, electrical faults, and system failures. Proper installation and regular inspection of wiring connections are crucial.

Dust and Shading

Dust accumulation on solar panels or shading caused by nearby objects or vegetation can reduce the efficiency of solar energy generation. Regular cleaning and ensuring unobstructed sunlight exposure are necessary to maintain optimal performance.

Frequency Failure

Frequency failure occurs when the frequency of the electrical supply deviates from the required range. Stable frequency is essential for proper operation of connected devices and grid integration.

Angle, Orientation Failure

Angle and orientation failure refers to incorrect alignment or positioning of solar panels. Proper alignment and tracking mechanisms are necessary to optimize energy generation from solar panels

Panel Degradation

Panel degradation involves the gradual reduction in performance and efficiency of solar panels over time. Factors such as exposure to sunlight, weather conditions, and environmental pollutants can contribute to panel degradation. Regular monitoring and maintenance can help identify and mitigate this issue.

Standard Failure

Standard failure refers to non-compliance with industry standards or regulations in the solar grid connection. Adhering to relevant standards ensures the safety, reliability, and interoperability of the system

PV Penetration Level Failure

PV penetration level failure occurs when the solar grid integration cannot maintain stability at high levels of PV penetration. Balancing generation and load demand is crucial to ensure grid stability and prevent issues such as voltage fluctuations and frequency deviations.

Corrosion in Connectors

Corrosion and deterioration of electrical connectors can adversely affect the performance and reliability of the solar grid connection. Regular inspection, cleaning, and proper maintenance of connectors are necessary to prevent corrosion-related failures.

Inadequate Maintenance

Inadequate maintenance refers to the lack of proper and timely maintenance activities in the solar grid connection. Regular inspection, cleaning, and servicing of components are essential to prevent failures and ensure optimal system performance.

PV Grid Placement

PV grid placement refersI apologize for the cutoff in my previous response. Here’s the continuation of the table:

Communication System Breakdown

Communication system breakdown involves the failure or breakdown of communication devices within the solar grid connection. Communication systems are essential for monitoring and control purposes. Malfunctions or interruptions in communication can hinder system performance and troubleshootin

Connection and Cybersecurity Failure

Connection and cybersecurity failure refers to issues related to insecure or unreliable connections and cybersecurity measures in the solar grid connection. Weak connections and cybersecurity vulnerabilities can compromise the system’s performance, integrity, and data security. Implementing robust connection measures and cybersecurity protocols are critical to mitigate potential risks.

Inverter Failure

Inverters are prone to failures due to their complex electronics and high usage.

Islanding Failure

Islanding failure happens when a solar system fails to disconnect from the grid during power outages. Islanding can pose risks to utility workers and damage equipment. Proper anti-islanding protection mechanisms are essential to prevent islanding and ensure grid safety.

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Maghami, M.R., Vahabzadeh, S., Mutambara, A.G.O. et al. Failure analysis in smart grid solar integration using an extended decision-making-based FMEA model under uncertain environment. Stoch Environ Res Risk Assess (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00477-024-02764-6

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