A Module-Level Photovoltaic Optimizer for Online I–V Curve Tracing and Daylight Photoluminescence

The increasing adoption of module-level power electronics, such as microinverters and power optimizers, for enhanced maximum power point tracking in photovoltaic modules creates new opportunities for integrating advanced inspection techniques. This article presents the design and experimental validation of a module-level photovoltaic optimizer based on a synchronous buck converter that enables non-invasive online I–V curve tracing and photoluminescence signal modulation for image acquisition under daylight conditions. The proposed approach extends conventional module-level converters by incorporating diagnostic capabilities that are typically intrusive in standard I–V measurements or electroluminescence imaging, which often require module disconnection or additional external hardware. By means of an appropriate topology selection and control strategy, both functionalities are integrated with minimal hardware modifications compared to a conventional DC–DC photovoltaic optimizer. The resulting system provides a compact and cost-effective solution for advanced monitoring and inspection of photovoltaic systems.