Review of PV array modelling, configuration and MPPT techniques

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper reviews the existing models, connection schemes and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods of PV arrays. The partial shading causes significant power losses. It is very difficult to maintain uniform irradiance over the entire PV array, especially for rooftop or building-integrated PV systems. The aspects such as connection scheme of PV array, shading pattern and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques, etc., decide the power generated by the PV array. The conventional MPPT methods are only capable of reaching maximum power point (MPP) in identical insolation situations. Hence, conventional MPP tracking becomes inept due to the existence of several peaks in the P-V characteristics. There are different global maximum power point (GMPP) tracking techniques available in the literature that operate in partial shading scenarios. The reconfiguration of the PV array reduces the number of multiple peaks. This reduction in several peaks makes conventional MPP tracking techniques competent even under partial shading conditions with low implementation complexity and higher tracking speed. This paper can assist scientists in choosing a precise objective-based PV module model, connection schemes and MPP tracking methods out of numerous schemes available in the literature.