Modeling, simulation, and performance analysis of PV array configurations (Series, Series-Parallel, Bridge-Linked, and Honey-Comb) to harvest maximum power under various Partial Shading Conditions

A major challenge for the progress of Photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems is to make them energy efficient. Partial Shading Condition (PSC) is one of the most important factors that contribute to the reduction in output power due to the mismatching power losses between the PV modules. These losses depend on the PV system structures; PV array configurations; shading patterns; physical location of shaded modules and the position of the tilt angle. This paper presents the modeling, simulation, and comparing the performance of 5 x 5 Series, Series-Parallel, Bridge-Linked, and Honey-Comb PV array configurations under uneven row, uneven column, diagonal, random, short and narrow, short and wide, long and narrow, and long and wide shading patterns. The performance of configurations is evaluated by comparing the open-circuit voltage; short-circuit current; Global maximum power point (GMPP); voltages and currents corresponding to GMPP;Local maximum power points (LMPPs); mismatching power losses; Fill Factor (FF) and efficiency. The variations in series resistance and shunt resistance of a PV module under different irradiance levels are also determined by considering the effect of thermal voltage. The KYOCERA-KC200GT PV modules are used for the simulation of 5 x 5 PV array configurations in MATLAB/Simulink software.