Evaluation of Interconnection Configuration Schemes for PV Modules with Switched-Inductor Converters under Partial Shading Conditions

Partial shading on photovoltaic (PV) arrays reduces the overall output power and causes multiple maximas on the output power characteristics. Due to the introduction of multiple maximas, mismatch power losses become apparent among multiple PV modules. These mismatch power losses are not only a function of shading characteristics, but also depend on the placement and interconnection patterns of the shaded modules within the array. This research work is aimed to assess the performance of 4 × 4 PV array under different shading conditions. The desired objective is to attain the maximum output power from PV modules at different possible shading patterns by using power electronic-based differential power processing (DPP) techniques. Various PV array interconnection configurations, including the series-parallel (SP), total-cross-tied (TCT), bridge-linked (BL), and center-cross-tied (CCT) are considered under the designed shading patterns. A comparative performance analysis is carried out by analyzing the output power from the DPP-based architecture and the traditional Schottky diode-based architecture. Simulation results show the gain in the output power by using the DPP-based architecture in comparison to the traditional bypassing diode method.