Non hot-spot PV module using solar cells with bypass diode function

The authors started to deliver terrestrial nonhot-spot photovoltaic modules using solar cells with the bypass diode function on the market. The bypass diode function is achieved by controlling cell reverse characteristics without increasing the cost. This function gives the bypass of current flow to the shaded cell when the module is shaded by unfavorable shields such as fallen leaves. Thus the advanced modules are able to show the more power output and the lower temperature increase than the conventional modules when a part of them is shaded.