Integrated Solar Cell and Supercapacitor Device: Strategy for Enhancing PV Array Power Output under Partial Shading

Partial shading decreases the maximum power output of solar cells and causes current imbalances in photovoltaic (PV) arrays. Supercapacitors, with their energy storage capabilities and swift charge-discharge features, are ideal for power compensation. This paper introduces an integrated solar cell and supercapacitor (SCS) device with a three-port structure and a bidirectional DC/DC converter regulated by a dual closed-loop control strategy. This paper presents a row current equalization scheme that aims to maximize the output power of the integrated array, using the switch matrix configuration as the decision variable. Supercapacitors compensate for shading-induced power losses by utilizing voltage deviations, preventing power loss due to current imbalances. A 9×9 PV array case study and four dynamic shading patterns showcased the proposed scheme's effectiveness, addressing shading-induced power loss with minimal switching devices and sensors.