Model predictive control for three-level boost converter in photovoltaic systems

In this paper, a three-level Boost (TLB) converter maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control strategy for a two-stage photovoltaic (PV) system based on model predictive control (MPC) is proposed. This method realizes fast and precise control through establishment of a prediction model and minimization of a cost function. In the work, first a three-level predictive model for the boost converter is extracted, then a predictive control algorithm using the Perturb and Observe (P&O) method is proposed, and subsequently voltage balance of the neutral point of the converter is added to the control loop. Based on the proposed method, since the inverter is not obligated to control the DC-link neutral point voltage, its modulation can be used to realize other controls on the AC side to improve grid operation. Results of the control scheme have been verified through Matlab / Simulink, and the results have been in agreement with the expectations.