Overvoltage Protection for Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking Converters in Series Connection

Distributed maximum power point tracking (DMPPT) circuits are useful to improve the power production of photovoltaic (PV) systems operating under mismatched conditions such as partial shading. The main option to implement DMPPT circuits is the series connection of PV systems based on dc/dc converters, however those converters are subjected to overvoltage conditions that could damage the circuit. This paper proposes a sliding-mode control technique to avoid overvoltage conditions, which ensures the circuit operation in a safe operating point.