A Novel Partial Shading Detection Algorithm Utilizing Power Level Monitoring

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) under partial shading condition (PSC) is a challenging process in the PV array system. The shaded PV panel makes different peak patterns on the P-V curve and misguides the MPPT algorithm. Various kinds of global MPP (GMPP) detecting algorithms are used to overcome this issue. Generally, too frequent execution of GMPP tracking algorithm reduces the achievable power of PV panel due to time spent on the scanning process. Thus, partial shading detection algorithm is essential for efficient utilization of solar energy source. While conventional method only detects fast shading patterns, the proposed algorithm always shows superb performance regardless of the speed of partial shading patterns.