I have an array of four panels that I want to wire into two strings of two panel series. I've attached a drawing of the array showing which direction the potential shading could be coming from. Panels w and x have the potential to be temporarily shaded by things stored nearby on the roof. If there is something shading the panels it will probably shade both or not at all. Panels y and z will never be shaded. What is the best way to wire these into two strings of two in series to minimize the affects of shading? Is there a clear benefit to having the two panels that will never be shaded wired in the same string versus one in partial shade and one with no shade?
You would want to have at least two panels in the same series unshaded. If one panel was shaded and the other not it would bring the total current down for that string. The other string connected parallel that is in full light will still put out it's full potential .