Output performance analysis and power optimization of different configurations half-cell modules under partial shading

Abstract The performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules is influenced by environmental variables, especially shading. Partial shading makes the solar irradiance level of solar cells in PV modules uneven, thus reducing the performance of PV modules and even damaging the PV modules. In this work, the single diode model and the Bishop model are used to simulate the I–V characteristics of various half-cell modules in detail, and the results under normal and shading conditions are analyzed. Investigations of module configurations include a series-parallel-series connections half-cell module with 3 bypass diodes, one configuration with a series of 120 half-cells with 3 bypass diodes, and another configuration with a series of 120 half- cells with 5 bypass diodes. In the simulation, the working modes of the shaded half-cells can be clearly understood. Electrical performances of three modules in different shading scenarios are obtained. Through the practical shading experiment, the optimal output power of different configurations half-cell modules under two power optimization schemes is analyzed.