Enhanced Analysis of PV Array Operating in Partial Shading Conditions Using a Dispersed Illumination Technique

Abstract

Partial shading of a PV array leads to lower energy yield and results in multiple peaks in its P–V characteristics. The losses due to partial shading are not proportional to the shaded area but are dependent on the shading pattern, array configuration and the physical position of shaded modules in the array. This paper presents a novel Dispersed Illumination (DI) technique for mitigating partial shading effects in a Total Cross-Tied (TCT) photovoltaic (PV) array configuration. The proposed technique aims to maximize power output under various partial shading conditions by physically redistributing shaded modules across the array, thereby reducing the mismatch losses and suppressing the formation of multiple local maxima in the power–voltage characteristics. The simulation results have been compared to the Odd–Even and TCT configuration results. The proposed technique consistently outperforms both the Odd–Even and conventional TCT arrangements by delivering higher maximum power output, thereby demonstrating its superior effectiveness in mitigating partial shading losses. Owing to its simplicity, the proposed method offers a practical and efficient solution for improving PV array performance in real-world partially shaded environments.