Intelligent PV module for grid-connected PV systems

Most issues carried out about building integrated PV systems (BIPV) performance show average losses about 20-25% in electricity production. The causes are varied: mismatching losses, partial shadows, variations in I-V characteristics of PV modules due to manufacturing processes, differences in the orientations and inclinations of solar surfaces, temperature effects, etc. Most losses can be decreased by means of a suitable electronics. This paper shows the Intelligent PV Module concept, a low cost and high efficiency DC-DC converter with MPPT functions, control and power line communications (PLC). Several DC-DC configurations have been considered as well as MPPT methods and communication options. Matlab simulations describe how this Intelligent PV Module can make a significant improvement in the energy delivered, above all in facades and roofs, in which the number of modules and the external conditions make this device most suitable.