MATLAB/Simulink-Based Tracking of Maximum Power Point in a Generalized Photovoltaic Module by Using DC-DC Boost Converter

Abstract

Rapidly increasing population and faster growing industrialization results in higher worldwide consumption of energy. Energy demand of the whole world including India is increasing at an alarming rate and conventional methods of generating energy such as thermal, hydro, and nuclear could not find their way to meet out this growing demand of electricity. To meet out this increasing consumption of power is a big challenge in front of energy or power sectors. This energy crisis has forced the energy planners to think for a new alternative method of generating energy, i.e., solar energy, as the sun is the best natural resource. This paper analyses and evaluates the photovoltaic module created using MATLAB/Simulink under distinct climatic conditions and exhibits nonlinear V-I and P–V features. This gives an idea of extracting as much power as possible from the photovoltaic module and this is accomplished by implementing methods to find a condition where maximum power is achieved. Two most extensively adapted MPPT methods presented here are ‘Perturb & Observe’ method and ‘Incremental Conductance’ method. Interconnection of an electrical load and photovoltaic module is done by DC-DC boost converter incorporating MPPT methods. MPPT methods help in adjusting duty cycle (α) to trigger MOSFET switch of DC-DC boost converter and is regulated so that energy received at load from the source is maximum. A simulated photovoltaic module is developed in MATLAB/Simulink by taking practically available ELDORA-250P module as a reference module for validation. This module is then built in MATLAB/Simulink to simulate with Perturb and Observe and Incremental Conductance algorithm incorporating DC-DC boost converter for getting maximum output power.