Multi-objective optimization of the DC-DC stage of a Module-Integrated Inverter based on an efficiency usage model

As photovoltaic (PV) energy continues to gain market penetration due to the lower cost of photovoltaic (PV) modules, attention is shifting to the balance-of-system. In this paper, a new efficiency evaluation technique based on a usage model synthesized from high temporal operational data of a PV module is investigated along with a multi-objective design optimization of the DC-DC stage of a Module-Integrated Inverter. The analysis shows that the technique provides more accurate results then the California Energy Commission weighted efficiency method particularly when other geographic regions of the world are considered.