Minimizing the current mismatch resulting from different locations of solar cells within a PV module by proposing new interconnections

Abstract

The divergence in the amount of the diffuse solar radiation that strikes a PV module stems from the different view-factor values that the module “sees” facing the sky. This, in conjunction with the typical interconnection topology of the solar cells within the module, entails an overall current mismatch and results in the loss of output power. In this paper, we propose a new interconnection arrangement whereby the module’s solar cells are connected in parallel strips of series-connected cells. Since different solar cells within the module are associated with different view-factors, we show that the new interconnection strategy reduces the current mismatch and contributes a power gain. The power gain is then evaluated when varying the geometric parameters of the module as well as the relative percentage of diffuse radiation. Based on a theoretical model that integrates the equations of the module’s I-V characteristic with those of the view-factor, the power gain is shown to vary between 3% and 13%. The study may have significant implication for the PV industry that strives to reduce its costs while increasing the power production.