Hot-spot mitigation in PV arrays with distributed MPPT (DMPPT)

This paper analyzes the use of distributed MPPT (DMPPT) in relation to mitigation of hot-spot problems. A full analysis is performed, including simulations of I-V curves under different shading situations and an in-field analysis. The results show that DMPPT is less prone to hot-spots than central MPPT in a different range of shadows depending on the module type. [Display omitted] •Performed simulations and field tests of hot-spots in PV systems with central and distributed MPPT.•It has been shown that PV systems with DMPPT are less prone to hot-spots than those with central MPPT.•Depending on the cell type, the benefits of DMPPT can change but it is always better than central MPPT.•DMPPT can avoid hot-spots in shading situations of up to 50% of one cell. Central MPPT only up to 12%. A lack of maintenance in PV systems can cause hot-spots due to localized or irregular dirt, causing permanent losses and reducing the reliability of the system. By-pass diodes were introduced to lessen this problem although they do not eliminate it completely, as recent literature has shown. This paper analyzes the use of distributed MPPT (DMPPT) in relation to mitigation of hot-spot problems. A full analysis is performed, including simulations of I–V curves under different shading situations and an in-field analysis. The results show that DMPPT is less prone to hot-spots than central MPPT in a different range of shadows depending on the module type.