Si Photovoltaic Semiconductor Devices Operating in Total and Partial Illumination

Power photovoltaic applications, as photovoltaic power plants or building integrated photovoltaic systems, are mainly built using parallel or serial photovoltaic modules strings. Daily usage of such systems usually produces non-uniform string connected behavior due to partial or total shading. In these conditions, less illuminated cells transform into power receivers, thus producing supplementary losses and local panel heating. This phenomenon, called hot-spot, may evolve into producing zonal or total destruction of the solar modules. For these purposes this paper will submit to your attention simulation and experimental results of the partial and total illumination phenomenon, targeting specific information in the effect evaluation of any photovoltaic panel.