Maximum Power Point Tracking and Programmable Output Voltage Controller for PV Systems

Abstract: The power obtained from the Photovoltaic (PV) system keeps on changing with solar radiation and ambient temperature because of the nonlinear voltage current characteristic, exhibited by the PV system. However, with the advancement in technology, it is now possible to obtain maximum power from the PV cell and thus overall efficiency can be improved. In this paper, Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) based on Perturb and Observe (P & O) algorithm and programmable output voltage controller for PV systems has been presented. P & O algorithm improves the overall efficiency of MPPT and provides faster response, particularly during fast changing environmental conditions. The single stage buck and boost converter has been hardware modelled and by adjusting the duty cycle, constant output voltage can be obtained. Keywords: Maximum Power Point Tracking, Open Circuit Voltage, Short Circuit Current, Perturb and Observe Algorithm, Buck Converter, Boost Converter.