Cross-ladder reconfiguration algorithm to improve the output power of the PV array during partial shading

Solar photovoltaic is a prominent renewable energy source that utilizes solar irradiance to generate electrical power. However, partial shading can substantially reduce the performance of PV systems. The PV array reconfiguration is an effective strategy to mitigate partial shading effects and enhance power output. This approach involves physically or electrically rearranging the PV panels to balance irradiance and equalize the currents generated by different interconnection configurations. This work proposed a Cross-Ladder technique for reconfiguring PV arrays under partial shading conditions. The proposed algorithm offers an innovative approach for distributing the partial shading more evenly across the PV array and optimizing the power output by physically repositioning the PV modules and maintaining the electrical connections the same as Total Cross Tied. The effectiveness of the proposed Cross-Ladder method is assessed using four distinct shading scenarios in MATLAB/Simulink and compared with the standard TCT connection scheme in terms of Global Maximum Power Point, Power Enhancement, Mismatch Loss, Execution Ratio, and Fill Factor. The proposed cross-ladder approach minimizes the power peaks on the PV curve and improves generated power by 3% to 20.5%, compared to TCT. The proposed reconfiguration approach is also tested experimentally to verify its practical viability.