Topology study of photovoltaic interface for maximum power point tracking

This paper looks at the performance of photovoltaic modules in nonideal conditions and proposes topologies to minimize the degradation of performance caused by these conditions. It is found that the peak power point of a module is significantly decreased due to only the slightest shading of the module, and that this effect is propagated through other nonshaded modules connected in series with the shaded one. Based on this result, two topologies for parallel module connections have been outlined. In addition, dc/dc converter technologies, which are necessary to the design, are compared by way of their dynamic models, frequency characteristics, and component cost. Out of this comparison, a recommendation has been made.