Fault Detection and Classification Scheme for PV System Using Array Power and Cross-Strings Differential Currents

Accurate and fast fault monitoring system is important for photovoltaic (PV) systems to reduce the damage energy loss associated with faults. This paper presents a detection classification scheme PV systems. The rate of change measured power at array level firstly used detect differentiate between shading short-circuit Then, cross-strings differential currents classify type in case proposed method accounts intra-string, string-to-negative terminal, cross-string (string string), pole-to-pole faults, as well open circuit Two current transducers per two strings are only required apply leading significant reduction number transducers/sensors compared literature, making it cost-effective solution. detected classified 1 ms. A 400 kW consisting 4 arrays simulated using MATLAB/Simulink package evaluation process. Short-circuit faults imposed different conditions mismatch levels resistance values. Also, operation reduced irradiance considered, levels. simulation results prove ability can correctly types almost all cases. low implementation cost due lower sensors fast-operating time (1 ms) boost feasibility method.