| Abstract |
Today's PV solar power plants would be unimaginable without Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) which automatically maximizes panels power output, thereby significantly increasing energy production. However, partial shading of PV panels in large solar plants is a serious obstacle for MPPT. Multiple local extremums will be observed while only one is the global maximum and has to be found. Some methods and algorithms for solving the problem of tracking the global maximum among locals are known. However, most require a prolonged search time with, therefore, diminished efficiency in situations characterized by sudden variation in solar irradiation. A uniquely efficient algorithm and electronic device was developed for improving total MPPT functionality. It is accomplished by tracking global maximum boundaries, the positions of which are translated into traditional MPPT with substantial localization accuracy. This localization algorithm is based on the assessment of each panel's current together with the usage of a simplified PV equivalent circuit.The proposed algorithm can determine the global maximum on an I-P curve at relatively high speeds, and is only restricted by digital control ability. Currently, this task would take no more than 50-100 us maximum. Therefore, the global maximum in any set of rapidly changing shading conditions can be found. Importantly, however, some unsolved questions remain regarding accuracy and sustainability of this approach. The present work analyzes these essential properties and concludes with the proposed MPPT algorithm. |
