Comparative Study of Optimal PV Array Configurations and MPPT under Partial Shading with Fast Dynamical Change of Hybrid Load

Abstract

The characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) are directly affected by partial shading (PS) conditions due to the non-uniform irradiance. The PV system can be compromised based on the shading pattern as well as the shading area. Thus, the need for a solution that can deal with non-uniform irradiance has increased significantly. Consequently, this paper proposes a thorough analysis of the impact of PS patterns on different PV array configurations such as SP, TCT, and BL. The five optimization algorithms PSO, DA, MLS-SPA, IGWO, and BWO, were used to tune the variable step of the conventional P&O technique to extract the maximum power point. The proposed PV array is 4×4 with a fixed location, yet changing electrical connections. The main objective and novelty of this paper is to locate the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP) of a PV array while the occurrence of different PSC with fast change of hybrid load e.g., (resistive and pump load). The results showed the superior performance of the IGWO algorithm regarding the maximum power tracking and disturbance rejection.