Performance of different PV array configurations under different partial shading conditions

Abstract

In this paper, variations of the adverse effects of different partial shading patterns on the performance of a photovoltaic (PV) array with different array configurations is investigated using MATLAB/Simulink. The configurations considered were: Series-parallel (SP), total-cross-tied (TCT), bridged-linked (BL), and honey-comb (HC). Each configuration was investigated using a 4 × 4 PV array of KYOCERA KC200GT modules. The results show strong correlation between these effects and the configuration scheme of a PV array. It was evident that the TCT configuration outperformed all others schemes under various partial shading patterns, while the SP scheme exhibited the least performance. Quantitative results of the maximum power yield in each configuration were used as the prime indicator of performance.