Maximizing the Power Output of Partially Shaded Photovoltaic Plants Through Optimization of the Interconnections Among Its Modules

Photovoltaic applications worldwide have reported problems with shading. Passing clouds, the moving shade of a neighbor´s chimney or a nearby tree, can completely compromise the power production of such plants despite their size or sophistication. In order to address this issue, this paper makes an exhaustive study of the available interconnections among the modules of a shaded photovoltaic field and how they impact power production. As a result, a clear relationship between the interconnections of the PV modules and their power output is proposed through empirical connection laws.