Performance of shingled solar modules under partial shading. (8th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Klasen, Nils; Weisser, Daniel; Rößler, Torsten; Neuhaus, Dirk Holger; Kraft, Achim
• Is Part Of: Progress in photovoltaics. Volume 30:Number 4(2022)
• Page Start: 325
• Page End: 338
• Publication Date: 2021-11-08
• Subjects: matrix modules -- partial shading -- shingle solar cells; Solar cells -- Periodicals; Photovoltaic cells -- Periodicals; Solar power plants -- Periodicals; 621.31245
• DOI: 10.1002/pip.3486
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1062-7995

Abstract

Abstract: Significant progress in the development and commercialization of electrically conductive adhesives has been made. This makes shingling a very attractive approach for solar cell interconnection. In this study, we investigate the shading tolerance of two types of solar modules based on shingle interconnection: first, the already commercialized string approach, and second, the matrix technology where solar cells are intrinsically interconnected in parallel and in series. An experimentally validated LTspice model predicts major advantages for the power output of the matrix layout under partial shading. Diagonal as well as random shading of a 1.6‐m 2 solar module is examined. Power gains of up to 73.8 % for diagonal shading and up to 96.5 % for random shading are found for the matrix technology compared to the standard string approach. The key factor is an increased current extraction due to lateral current flows. Especially under minor shading, the matrix technology benefits from an increased fill factor as well. Under diagonal shading, we find the probability of parts of the matrix module being bypassed to be reduced by 40 % in comparison to the string module. In consequence, the overall risk of hotspot occurrence in matrix modules is decreased significantly. Abstract : Subjected to partial shading shingle matrix modules benefit from an increased current extraction compared to shingle string modules. This is enabled by lateral currents bypassing shaded areas. In case of small shadings there are additional benefits in the fill factor. Overall, we find exceeding power outputs of the shingle matrix layout of up to +73.8 % for rectangular shadings and up to +96.5 % for random shadings.