A new MPPT controller based on a modified multiswarm PSO algorithm using an adaptive factor selection strategy for partially shaded PV systems

Abstract

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller is the main element in photovoltaic (PV) systems, which is used to ensure maximum power extraction under different meteorological conditions. A MPPT controller can guarantee good performance criteria even in the presence of climatic changes. To achieve this goal, several techniques have been proposed in the literature to improve robustness of the PV system control, such as artificial intelligence and multiswarm particle swarm optimization (MSPSO) algorithm. Previous research on classical MSPSO has shown that the algorithm search behavior cannot find the optimal solution for certain problems. In this context, we investigate the design of a new MPPT controller based on a modified version of heterogeneous multiswarm particle swarm optimization algorithm using an adaptive factor selection strategy (FMSPSO) for PV systems. The proposed FMSPSO can improve the tracking capability with high accuracy, less oscillations, and high robustness. To validate the proposed solution, a simulation and experimental benchmarking of a PV system are presented and analyzed. The obtained results show the effectiveness of the proposed solution compared with the classical MSPSO, fuzzy logic, and perturb and observe (P&O) control presented in other recent works.