Comprehensive analysis on the role of array size and configuration on energy yield of photovoltaic systems under shaded conditions

Abstract

Partial shading is a condition where, the panels in a photovoltaic (PV) array do not receive uniform irradiation. Shading causes mismatch in the electrical characteristics of the panels composing the PV array and results in significant reduction in the energy yield. The reduction in output is not proportional to the shaded area but depends on the extent of mismatch that in turn depends on other factors like array size, type of configuration chosen, position of the panels in the array and shading pattern. To reduce the severity of this issue and to improve the energy yield under shaded conditions, it is therefore necessary to analyze the role played by each one of the contributing factors in greater detail. This paper presents a detailed analysis focusing mainly on the role played by the array size, array configuration (interconnections among the panels) and the shading pattern on the energy yield under partial shading conditions.