Improved SuDoKu reconfiguration technique for total-cross-tied PV array to enhance maximum power under partial shading conditions

Abstract

Mismatch losses ignore the performance of individual photovoltaic (PV) modules and cut back most of the power from the PV array. These losses mainly due to partial shading condition (PSC), are caused by the reduction of spacing between PV modules, passing clouds, and near buildings, etc. Several techniques are present in the literature to cut back the partial shading issues. One of the most effective methods is the reconfiguration techniques, namely reconfigure the location of PV modules in PV array so as to distribute partial shading effects and increase the maximum power output. This paper proposes an Improved SuDoKu reconfiguration pattern for 9×9 Total-Cross-Tied (TCT) PV array to enhance maximum power output under partial shading conditions. The main aim of this approach is to arrange the PV modules in TCT array according to the SuDoKu pattern without altering the electrical connections. Further, the performance of the proposed pattern is evaluated with different existing PV array configurations by comparing the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP), Mismatch Losses (ML), Fill Factor (FF) and Efficiency (η). Based on the results of this paper, it is concluded that the proposed improved SuDoKu PV array arrangement enhances the global maximum power under all shading conditions.