Researchers from the University of Technology of Comoros and the University of La Réunion have developed a new approach to improve the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems when they are partially or completely shaded. Their work, published in the journal IEEE Access, combines two techniques to better manage shading faults, which are a significant challenge for solar power generation.
Photovoltaic systems can lose a significant amount of efficiency when shaded, as this disrupts the system’s ability to track the maximum power point (MPPT). This new study introduces a hybrid optimization framework that merges Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) with a Shading-Aware Particle Swarm Optimization (SA-PSO) method. The fuzzy controller quickly identifies shading patterns, while the SA-PSO method speeds up the search for the global maximum power point (GMPP) and helps avoid getting stuck in local minima.
The researchers tested their approach against the conventional Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm. They found that their hybrid model improved power output by up to 11.8% and reduced tracking time by 62%. This means that PV systems using this new approach could generate more electricity and do so more efficiently, even when shaded.
For the energy industry, this research offers a practical solution to a common problem. PV systems are increasingly being used to generate renewable energy, but shading from buildings, trees, or other obstructions can significantly reduce their output. By implementing this hybrid optimization framework, PV system operators could enhance the resilience and energy yield of their systems, making solar power a more reliable and efficient energy source.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.