Modeling and circuit-based simulation of photovoltaic arrays

This paper presents an easy and accurate method of modeling photovoltaic arrays. The method is used to obtain the parameters of the array model using information from the datasheet. The photovoltaic array model can be simulated with any circuit simulator. The equations of the model are presented in details and the model is validated with experimental data. Finally, simulation examples are presented. This paper is useful for power electronics designers and researchers who need an effective and straightforward way to model and simulate photovoltaic arrays.