Discussion on module-based hot-spot suppression in a PV generation system

This paper presents a novel control system for the hot-spot detection and suppression in a photovoltaic (PV) generation system. In this novel system, a distributed structure of a PV string is employed by installing a buck-boost converter to each module. Following this structure, a systematic control strategy is proposed for the module-based hot-spot detection. Moreover, the safe operation is adopted to suppress the prolonged high temperature when the hot-spot is detected. On the other hand, the normal modules can work at their maximum power point tracking (MPPT), respectively. On this occasion, the PV string could be smart because every module could function in their optimal state which is determined to their respective conditions. In order to validate this novel control system, the experiments have been carried out in a laboratory prototype. The verified results show that the PV generation system can operate safely at module level by using this novel control system.