What is a result of having bypass diodes in a PV module?

Bypass diodes play a crucial role in the operation of photovoltaic (PV) modules, particularly in mitigating the effects of shading on individual solar cells within a module. When one or more solar cells are shaded, they can become less productive or even act as a resistive load, potentially lowering the performance of the entire module. Bypass diodes connect around individual cells or groups of cells, allowing the current to 'bypass' the shaded or malfunctioning cells.

This diversion of current is essential for maintaining the overall performance of the module because it prevents a decrease in overall output due to partial shading. Instead of the current being blocked or reduced significantly, the bypass diodes allow the unshaded cells to continue generating electricity, thus preserving the overall current output of the array. This feature is particularly valuable in practical applications where shading can be intermittent, such as from nearby trees or buildings.

While other factors like overall voltage, thermal management, and efficiency under low light are relevant to the performance of a PV module, the primary and most critical function of bypass diodes is their ability to protect against the adverse effects of shading by diverting current. Consequently, this increases the reliability and overall functionality of the solar power system in real-world environments.