Matlab/Pspice hybrid simulation modeling of solar PV cell/module

The power generated by solar photovoltaic (PV) module depends on surrounding irradiance, temperature and shading conditions. Under partial shading conditions (PSC) the power from the PV module can be dramatically reduced and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control will be affected. This paper presents a hybrid simulation model of PV cell/module and system using Matlab^®/Simulink^® and Pspice^®. The hybrid simulation model includes the solar PV cells and the converter power stage and can be expanded to add MPPT control and other functions. The model is able to simulate both the I-V characteristics curves and the P-V characteristics curves of PV modules under uniform shading conditions (USC) and PSC. The model is used to study different parameters variations effects on the PV array. The developed model is suitable to simulate several homogeneous or/and heterogeneous PV cells or PV panels connected in series and/or in parallel.