Improved performance of Dynamic Photovoltaic Array under repeating shade conditions

Abstract

This paper proposes a new strategy for implementing the Reconfigurable Solar Photovoltaic array or Dynamic Photovoltaic array under repeating shade conditions. The repeating shades are mainly caused by the civil structures, buildings, poles, etc., present in the vicinity of a Dynamic Photovoltaic array. This paper presents a new algorithm to minimize the processing time in case of repeating shades. According to which, the controller does not have to perform the exhaustive calculations at each shade condition. Instead, the algorithm compares the present shade response with the previous shade responses. Simulation of 4-by-4 size Dynamic Photovoltaic array has been carried out. Experimental tests of a Dynamic Photovoltaic array under resistive load conditions have been conducted. A switch-network of double pole double throw switches has been proposed and is used in the Dynamic Photovoltaic array experimental test. Switch-count of the proposed switch-network is one-third and significantly less compared to the conventional semiconductor switch-network.