Abstract
This study develops a new integrated measurement and control system for intermixed biogas and photovoltaic systems to achieve
safe and optimal energy usage. Literature and field studies show that existing control methods on small- to medium-scale systems
fall short of comprehensive system optimization and fault diagnosis, hence the need to revisit these control methods.The control
strategy developed in this study is intelligent as it is wholly based on fuzzy logic algorithms. Fuzzy logic controllers due to their
superior nonlinear problem solving capabilities to classical controllers considerably simplify controller design.The mathematical
models that define classical controllers are difficult or impossible to realize in biogas and photovoltaic generation process. A
microcontroller centered fuzzy logic measurement and control embedded system is designed and developed on the existing hybrid
biogas and photovoltaic installations. The designed system is able to accurately predict digester stability, quantify biogas output,
and carry out biogas fault detection and control. Optimized battery charging and photovoltaic fault detection and control are
also successfully implemented. The system is able to optimize the operation and performance of biogas and photovoltaic energy
generation.