Models and methods for energy productivity analysis of PV systems

This paper discusses models and methods for the analysis of PV systems with Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking (DMPPT). An Energy Productivity Analysis Algorithm (EPAA) is discussed, integrating models and algorithms from component level to system level, allowing the analysis of PV systems operating in partial shading and electrical mismatched conditions. The EPAA provides realistic assessment of the energy productivity including the effects of PV panels characteristics, of shadows and of the MPPT converters. A comparative evaluation of boost-based vs buck-boost-based DMPPT solutions is presented in the paper, highlighting how the energy productivity of DMPPT PV systems is influenced by the parameters of real components.