A novel multipoint direct-estimation method for the maximum power point tracking of photovoltaic modules under partially shaded irradiation conditions

The characteristics and performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules in PV-assisted generation systems are deeply affected by environmental conditions, such as temperature, non-uniform irradiation, and solar shading. Under partially shaded conditions, several local maximum power points (MPPs) are found in the power-voltage curve of PV modules. The PV characteristics change with multiple MPPs, so the actual MPP tracking becomes a difficult task. Conventional methods for tracking the MPP of PV modules under partially shaded conditions cannot be quickly find the actual MPP. Based on the p-n junction semiconductor theory, we develop a multipoint direct-prediction method for directly estimating multiple MPPs for power tracking of PV modules under partially shaded conditions. The proposed method is a new and simple approach with a low calculation burden. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method helps in the optimization of the MPP control model in PV modules.