Surge Withstand Capabilities of Photovoltaic Modules and Their Bypass Diodes to Lightning Overvoltages
Abstract
Photovoltaic (PV) system components are vulnerable to transient overvoltages caused by direct and indirect lightning and switching in the electrical grid. Therefore, for the reliability, efficiency, and safety necessary for the technical and economic feasibility of PV systems, it is essential to protect these components from transient overvoltages. These effects must be quantified through the relationship between the magnitudes of these overvoltages and the Surge Withstand Capability (SWC) value of these components, i.e., photovoltaic modules and their bypass diodes. This study presents the results of lightning impulses applied to photovoltaic modules and bypass diodes, considering the presence or absence of surge protective devices.
Keywords
Bypass Diodes, Lightning, Overvoltage, PV Modules, Surge Withstand Capability