Model-Based Maximum Power Curves of Solar Photovoltaic Panels Under Partial Shading Conditions

Abstract

This paper introduces a new model-based analytical method for locating the maximum power point (MPP) of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels under partial shading conditions. It also provides an analytical model to obtain maximum power line as a function of the panel voltage for changing weather conditions. A series of analytical equations that can accurately simulate a photovoltaic P – V or I – V curve under uniform and partial shading conditions are derived from established models. The proposed analytical model can subsequently determine the approximate location of all local maxima on a P – V or I – V curve and identify the global MPP to improve MPP tracking efficiency. Results show that the proposed analytical model for single and multiple maxima match experimental measurements on a PV panel. Loci of the MPP are also verified to be in close correlation between the proposed model, existing PV single-diode two-resistor model, and experiments.