Interleaved boost converter for multi-string photovoltaic topologies

Abstract

An interleaved boost topology suitable for multistring photovoltaic topologies is presented in this paper. The presented topology allows to use independent and decoupled Maximum Power Point Tracking algorithms in order to optimize the use of the solar energy, especially for large PV farms, where the special location of the panels is distributed. The main features of an interleaved structures are presented and why they are adequate for connect several PV modules is explained. A basic Perturb and Observe algorithm is used to achieve the Maximum Power Point of the PV strings and its extension for the proposed topology is presented. Several simulations were carried out to demonstrate the suitability of the interleaved boost topology for PV applications.