Enhanced Single-Diode Solar Cell Model: Analytical Solutions Using Lambert W Function and Circuit Innovations

This paper highlights significant advancements in the creation and enhancement of equivalent circuit models for solar cells. First, two novel configurations are proposed to enhance the classic single-diode model: one adds a diode between the terminal connections, while the other inserts a diode and resistor in series between the same terminals. Second, original analytical expressions for the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of each proposed circuit are derived using the Lambert W function. Third, the performance of these models is rigorously evaluated on a variety of solar cells under diverse environmental conditions. Results demonstrated the models’ accuracy and robustness, with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) analysis showing superior alignment between simulated and experimental I-V curves compared to existing single-, double-, and triple-diode solar cell models from the literature. Finally, the proposed approach enhances the mathematical precision in modeling solar cell behavior and provides a reliable framework for optimizing solar energy systems, contributing to improved performance and efficiency in practical applications.