Multi-objective optimization of PV arrays performances by means of the dynamical reconfiguration of PV modules connections

Mismatching operating conditions (due to clouds, shading, non-uniform aging, manufacturing tolerances, etc.) strongly limit the energetic efficiency and the reliability of PV plants. The dynamical re-configuration of PV modules represents a promising solution in order to mitigate the drawbacks associated to mismatching phenomena. The goal of this paper is just to prove that, by using the dynamical reconfiguration of PV modules, it is possible to find configurations which allow to get a suitable compromise between energetic efficiency and reliability. In particular, in this paper, the expression of a suitable Objective Function whose maximization allows to get the required compromise between energetic efficiency and amplitude of thermal stresses (due to bypass diode conduction and/or reverse biasing of shaded cells) is introduced and discussed. © 2015 IEEE.