Maximizing the Power Generation of a Partially Shaded PV Array

Abstract

As per energy efficiency of a photovoltaic (PV) system is concerned, partial shading is an important issue. Under partial shading condition, the modules of a PV array receive different levels of solar irradiation, so the power generation of a PV system decreases. The power–voltage characteristic of a partially shaded PV array contains multiple local maxima, and the global maximum power point is one of them. The losses in a PV array depend on the shading pattern and the physical location of shaded modules. This paper presents the Futoshiki puzzle pattern for the arrangement of the modules of a PV array under partial shading condition, ensuring the enhancement of the power generation with respect to totally crossed tired (TCT) structure. In this method, the physical locations of modules in a TCT structure PV array are rearranged without changing the electrical connection of the modules. A comparison between the power generation in TCT and Futoshiki puzzle pattern configuration is presented. It is demonstrated that the power generated by a PV array in the Futoshiki configuration method is enhanced, and mismatch loss (ML) is minimized under different shading patterns by theoretical, simulation, and experimental results.