Development an efficient photovoltaic (PV) configuration for low power applications

This paper proposes a new technique for connecting PV modules with the grid at high efficiency in case of partial shading. Normally many PV modules connected in series with single unit of dc-dc converter which be affected seriously to a partial shading as the controller disconnects the whole string. Here each PV module is connected with a single dc-dc with high voltage gain converter, and then converters are connected in series to provide the required dc voltage level for the H-Bridge inverter to be coincident to the grid. So the proposed system can operate in the optimum condition even if shading occurs. MPPT control will be applied to each converter individually to assure that every PV module operates at its maximum power at every condition. As a result the whole system efficiency can be increased. A prototype has been built, tested for validation. Some selected simulation and experimental results have been provided.