Maximum power point tracking methods for photovoltaic systems operating under partially shaded or rapidly variable insolation conditions: a review paper |
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| Authors: | Abdouramani Dadjé Janvier Domra Kana Réné Tchinda |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Renewable Energy, The Higher Institute of the Sahel, University of Maroua, Maroua, Cameroon;2. School of Geology and Mining Engineering, University of Ngaoundere, Ngaoundere, Cameroon;3. Department of Petroleum and Gas Exploration, The Institute of Mines and Petroleum Industries, University of Maroua, Maroua, Cameroon;4. LISIE, Fotso Victor University Institute of Technology, University of Dschang, Bandjoun, Cameroon |
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| Abstract: | To increase the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems, maximum power point (MPP) tracking of the solar arrays is needed. Under partially shaded conditions (PSCs), the solar arrays power–current (P–I) characteristic has multiple MPP. This paper presents various methods and approaches of tracking the MPP from a PV generator operating under PSC. Some comparisons, advantages, drawbacks and critical analysis of each method are discussed. It was found that, indirect methods use empirical data or mathematical expressions of numerical approximations to estimate the MPP from the PV generator’s voltage, current and irradiance. Direct methods offer the advantage of obtaining the actual maximum power from the PV generator’s voltage and current. Artificial intelligence methods do not need exact mathematical models. They can perform under parameter variation, load and supply voltage disturbances. Finally, novel methods require less number of iterations to converge, independent to the initial conditions. All these algorithms can be included in some of the DC/DC converters and MPP trackers for stand-alone or grid-connected systems. |
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| Keywords: | Partially shaded modules maximum power point rapidly variable insolation solar array characteristics efficiency of a photovoltaic generator |
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