Novel multi-input solar PV topologies for 1-φ and 3-φ stand alone applications to mitigate the effects of partial shading

This paper proposes novel boost type inverter topologies and their control scheme for solar Photovoltaic (PV) applications. The proposed topologies provide a single power stage, low part count, highly efficient solution for 1-φ and 3-φ stand alone applications. A notable feature of the proposed topologies is that they facilitate splitting of a given PV source into two or more sub-parts by offering as many input ports. Thus, they offer excellent features with respect to optimal arrangement and configuration of the PV panels and maximum power extraction, which are especially beneficial under partially shaded conditions. For analysis of the control strategy, a model is derived for one of the sections of the proposed system, which is then extended for the controller design of the overall system. The plant pole cancellation and reference signal frequency information approach is used for the compensator design to track the reference signal that includes both AC and DC components. The compensators are designed for a fast dynamic response and accurate reference tracking. The topology modification for the three phase loads has also been analyzed and evaluated. The system is simulated and results show the ability of the proposed configuration to produce desired high quality supply, fed from split sub-sections of a PV source. A laboratory prototype is developed with available PV panels for 1-φ topology. Experimental results obtained from this prototype validate the analysis and simulated results.