Dense array connections for photovoltaic systems in concentration

Two new types of connections for photovoltaic cells in dense array are presented. These connections, making use of dc–dc converter modules, are shown to increase the power transfer to the load with respect to array realized with series o parallel connections for the same number of cells. The present connections are of particular interest in concentration photovoltaic (CPV) systems where the intensity of the incident light on each cell of the array can be very different causing the cells of the same array working with different current–voltage (I–V) curves. The two types of connection and the classical series and parallel connections are compared on a theoretical basis. Applications of the connections in real working scenarios are illustrated and discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.