Maximum power point tracking issues in control of a low power photovoltaic (PV) module

Abstract

The main challenge in control of photovoltaic (PV) power system is to operate at maximum efficiency. The I-V characteristics of PV system are non-linear, which makes it difficult to track the maximum power at varying Insolation and temperature. In this paper a 50W photovoltaic module based system is investigated for its control characteristics. The operating characteristics is studied with the focus on control of boost converter to achieve maximum power point tracking by Perturbation and Observation method uniquely used with PI controller. The performance analysis of this system based model is simulated and presented for MPP operation by applying the control technique to a boost converter highlighting the issues in its control. The simulation results are obtained and plotted for varying insolation level between 50 % and 100 % for validation.