Current equalization of mismatched PV panels based on a capacitor energy storage

In this paper a new approach for improving the energy production of photovoltaic (PV) field operating under partial shading conditions is proposed. The idea is based on the dynamic connection of an energy storage element to the PV field, thus achieving the current equalization among mismatched PV panels. In order to simplify the explanation, the partial shading occurring on a single PV panel is discussed in depth in this paper. Nevertheless, the proposed approach is scalable to any PV array by extending the proposed configuration at the PV panel level instead of at the sub-panel level. Simulations of the complete PV system confirm the validity of the proposed approach.