Harmonics Analysis on Model Predictive Control-based Algorithm for Partial Shading Mitigation on PV Array

Abstract

The photovoltaic (PV) systems are inherently intermittent due to unpredictable weather phenomena. The efficiency and reliability of these technologies depend solemnly on the intensity of sunlight, which, in practical conditions, is variable and varies linearly, nonlinearly, and abruptly with time. This study outlines the usual effects of power electronic devices, specifically the harmonics generated by variable switching frequencies as employed in PV arrays for partial shading mitigation. The buck converter-based model predictive control (MPC) algorithm was developed from the first principles and implemented in MATLAB/Simulink for harmonics detection on the PV array operating under various (nonlinear and linear irradiation) partial shading conditions (PSCs). The buck converter was developed to automatically inject a deficit current to curb power mismatch due to PSCs on the array. According to the simulation results, the artificial intelligence (AI) controlled converter generated a deficit current signal containing minimal to no distortion despite the mismatched PV module power due to PSCs.