A novel PV array interconnection scheme to extract maximum power based on global shade dispersion using grey wolf optimization algorithm under partial shading conditions

Purpose Partial shading causes significant power decreases in the PV systems. The purpose of this paper is to address this problem, connectivity regulation is designed to reduce partial shading problems. Design/methodology/approach In this approach, the partial shading was estimated and dispersed evenly on the whole array by global shade dispersion technique (GSD). The grey wolf algorithm was implemented for the interconnection of arrays by an efficient switching matrix. Findings After the implementation of the GSD technique using a grey wolf algorithm, the performance under different shading conditions was analyzed using the MatLab simulation tool. The results were compared with total cross-tied (TCT), Su Do Ku and the proposed method of reconfiguration, where the proposed method improves the maximum power of the PV system appropriately. Research limitations/implications This methodology uses any size of PV systems. Social implications Replacement of conventional energy systems with renewable energy systems such as solar helps the environment clean and green. Originality/value The GSD interconnection scheme using the grey wolf optimization algorithm has proved an improved output performance compared with the existing TCT and Sudoku based reconfiguration techniques. By comparing with existing techniques in literature, the proposed method is more advantageous for reducing mismatch losses between the modules of any size of the PV array with less operating time.