Design of module-integrated converters for photovoltaic strings

This paper presents a design of module-integrated converters (MICs) for photovoltaic (PV) modules connected in series in PV strings. The proposed concept enables a range of independent maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for each module, and dramatically decreases the requirements of power rating and efficiency for power converters with the trade-off of limited regulation ability. In this paper, different concepts of MICs are presented and evaluated, possible structures of MICs handling partial power are proposed, analyzed, realized, and verified. Simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the analysis. It is anticipated that the proposed approach will be a low-cost and high-efficiency solution for future photovoltaic power systems where PV modules mismatches are not significant.