Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy is becoming an increasingly important part of the world’s renewable energy. In order for effective energy extraction from a PV system, this study investigates I–V and P–V characteristics for different configurations of PV modules under partial shading conditions. The study examines how bypass diode could improve maximum power extraction characteristics of a PV module under shaded conditions. The study clarifies the fundamental mechanism of reduction in output power under shading condition for different configurations. It was observed that the reduction of power depends upon type of shade on module, shaded area and configuration of PV module. It was found that under partial shading conditions, a solar PV system may exhibit multiple peaks in its P–V characteristics.

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