Experimental analysis of SP/TCT PV array configurations under partial shading conditions

Abstract

In this paper; the effect of partial shading on series parallel (SP) and total-cross-tied (TCT) PV module configurations has been investigated. For this study; two PV modules (4×4 size) of SP and TCT configurations have been assembled using commercially available PV cells. The analysis has been done under two moving partial shading patterns i.e. horizontal and diagonal at constant environmental conditions. The results are compared for both the considered PV module configurations in terms of I–V characteristics. From the obtained results; it can be concluded that TCT PV module provide better performance and efficiency under partial shading. Moreover; current losses; fill factor and efficiency are also calculated to validate SP and TCT configured PV module performances under shading patterns.