Building a highly accurate model for solar cells and photovoltaic (PV) modules based on experimental data is becoming increasingly important for the simulation, evaluation, control, and optimization of PV systems. Powerful, accurate, and more robust optimization algorithms are needed to solve this problem. In this study, a new optimization approach based on the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm (ImLM) is proposed to estimate the parameters of PV cells and modules and simulate their electrical behavior under all environmental conditions efficiently and accurately. To avoid the premature convergence of the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and the long computation time caused by a bad choice of initial values, we propose a new approach. This is a new reduced form leading to a nonlinear relationship of the series resistance and thus allowing to calculate the optimal initial values of the model parameters. Comparisons with other published methods show that the proposed approach gives not only a more accurate final solution but also a fast convergence speed and a better stability. Furthermore, tests on three PV modules of different technologies (multi-crystalline, thin film, and monocrystalline) reveal that the proposed algorithm performs well at different irradiations and temperatures. These results confirm that the ImLM approach is a valuable tool and can be an effective and efficient alternative for extracting PV model parameters and simulating PV module behavior under different conditions.

The exploitation and development of photovoltaic (PV) modules faces several technical challenges, including those related to variability in electrical performance under real conditions, such as temperature fluctuations, irradiance variability, and dust accumulation. One solution for evaluating and controlling these performances is to conduct electrical characterization under natural conditions. Many characterization techniques have been developed and proposed in the literature, with the aim of verifying manufacturer performance guarantees and better understanding the behavior of PV modules in their installation environment, where the climatic parameters, such as solar irradiation and temperature, fluctuate constantly. These techniques are based on recognized standards, including those established by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). They are also based on methods of transposing basic electrical parameters, allowing the prediction of the performance of modules under various environmental conditions. In this work, a classification and a critical analysis of the main methods of electrical characterization were undertaken, highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages. The experimental protocols used to evaluate the impact of environmental parameters on the performance of PV modules were examined in detail.