Maximizing the power output of partially shaded solar PV array using novel interconnection method

Abstract

Solar Photo Voltaic Array performance severely effect by the partial shading and fast changing irradiance conditions. The performance depends on shading patterns and position of the solar panels in solar PV array. This paper proposes a novel interconnection method (Magic Square method), which disburse the shade to maximize the power output of partially shaded solar PV Array. The proposed system is tested under different partial shaded conditions for change in irradiation. As the solar panels receive continuous change in irradiation, the P-V characteristics of solar array experience multiple peaks or local peaks. The multiple peaks with conventional Total Cross Tied (TCT) connection are avoided with a novel interconnection method. A novel interconnection method (Magic Square method) gives enhanced output power than the conventional TCT connection. The proposed interconnection method is tested with two groups of irradiations for every chosen shading pattern. The performance of the proposed method for 3×3 solar PV Array is tested using theoretical calculations, MATLAB simulations and experimental results on laboratory built hardware setup. The successful working of magic square method on laboratory setup assures for large number of panels in solar PV array and its usefulness of the system.