Comparative Analysis on the Performance of a Short String of Series-Connected and Parallel-Connected Photovoltaic Array Under Partial Shading

The output power from the photovoltaic (PV) array decreases and the array exhibit multiple peaks when it is subjected to partial shading (PS). The power loss in the PV array varies with the array configuration, physical location and the shading pattern. This paper compares the relative performance of a PV array consisting of a short string of three PV modules for two different configurations. The mismatch loss, shading loss, fill factor and the power loss due to the failure in tracking of the global maximum power point, of a series string with bypass diodes and short parallel string are analysed using MATLAB/Simulink model. The performance of the system is investigated for three different conditions of solar insolation for the same shading pattern. Results indicate that there is considerable power loss due to shading in a series string during PS than in a parallel string with same number of modules. © 2014, The Institution of Engineers (India).