A Novel Approach for Solar PV Modules Reconfiguration to Achieve GMPP from Partially-Shaded PV Array System: An Experimental Analysis

This paper proposes a novel approach for PV modules reconfiguration to achieve higher global maximum power point out of partially-shaded PV array system. The novel methodology of reconfiguring the PV modules in array system has resulted in the discovery of Symmetric Matrix (SM) and Skyscraper configurations whose performances have been discussed in this paper. The performances of novel PV array configurations have been compared with classical configurations (Series-Parallel and Total-cross-tied) for two unique shading test profiles. The comparison has been supported by evaluating the recognized performance quantities: power at GMPP, fill factor, execution ratio and power loss for both the shading test profiles. The theoretical results have been obtained through MATLAB. A $4\times 4$ PV array made of SFTI18P5 PV modules has been considered and the results claim the remarkable performances of SM and Skyscraper over traditional configurations. The authentication of theoretical results on experimental platform firmly attests the advantage of proposed method.