Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithm for Solar Photovoltaic System using Moth Flame Optimization with Direct Control Strategy

Abstract: This paper presents a study in maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm in solar photovoltaic (PV). With the increase of the popularity of solar PV as power generation method, the effort of extracting maximum power output from the installed PV system remains a challenge. The study aims to identify the performance of the Moth Flame Optimization (MFO) based MPPT algorithm under constant and rapid change irradiance conditions. A simulation model of MFO MPPT algorithm is developed and implemented with a DC/DC Boost converter in MATLAB Simulink. For comparison, a conventional MPPT method, Perturb and Observe (P&O), together with a well-established Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) method were also included in this study. All the MPPT algorithms were simulated under 10 constant and 10 step changing irradiance test cases. All the MPPT algorithms in study were showing the ability to achieve the maximum power operating point with output efficiency up to 99 %. The performance of MFO is comparable with PSO in term of tracking efficiency and convergence time.

Keywords: Maximum Power Point Tracking, Particle Swarm Optimization, Moth Flame Optimization, photovoltaic.