5. Novel Solar-Cell String Wiring of Photovoltaic Module for Reducing Lightning Induced Overvoltage

The chapter discusses a novel solar-cell string wiring technique for photovoltaic modules aimed at reducing lightning-induced overvoltage. Traditional solar-cell string wiring connects positive and negative strings side by side, leading to high induced voltages during lightning strikes. The proposed crossover wiring reverses the polarity of the middle string's induced voltage, significantly reducing the overall voltage surge. This innovative method is easy to implement and maintains the same output power as conventional wiring. The chapter also explores the mechanism of induced voltage reduction and evaluates the performance of the proposed wiring in various scenarios, including PV arrays on flat ground and rooftops. Additionally, it addresses the influence of soil resistivity and provides practical mitigation strategies to further enhance lightning protection. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed wiring in safeguarding photovoltaic systems against lightning damage, making it a valuable resource for professionals in the renewable energy sector.