Solar-array Controller Needs No Multiplier To Maximize Power

摘要

Solar-photovoltaic arrays are among the most efficient, cost-effective, and scalable "green" alternatives to fossil fuels, and researchers are almost daily announcing new advances in photovoltaic technology. But successful application of photovoltaics still depends on strict attention to power-conversion efficiency. Figure 1 shows one reason for this attention.rnA photovoltaic array's delivery of useful power to the load is a sensitive function of load-line voltage, which in turn depends on insolation-that is, sunlight intensity-and array temperature. Operation anywhere on the current/voltage curve except at the optimal maximum-power-point voltage results in lowered efficiency and a waste of valuable energy. Consequently, methods for maximum-power-point tracking are common features in ad-rnvanced solar-power-management systems because they can boost practical power-usage efficiency-often by 30% or more.