Thevenin-based approach to PV arrays maximum power prediction

An alternative approach to modeling and analyzing solar arrays is presented in the manuscript, based on the Thevenin equivalent circuit. A commonly used solar array model in linearized, allowing simple source-resistance representation. The Thevenin elements dependence on the ambient conditions and load are derived and the simplified model is shown to be sufficient to closely predict the array behavior for different ambient conditions. The method is useful for both expected performance prediction and various Maximum Power Point Tracking algorithms examination. Simulation and experimental results are given to enforce the presented theory.