Algorithm to Pinpoint the Maximum Power Points on the Power-Voltage Curve of PV Arrays under Different Conditions

• Published in: 2020 IEEE PES/IAS PowerAfrica pp. 1 - 5
• Main Authors: Ahmad, Ashraf A., Amalo, Kulu A., Airoboman, Abel E., Okakwu, Ignatius K.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01.08.2020
• Subjects: Maximum power point (MPP); Maximum power point trackers; Partial shading; Photovoltaic (PV); Photovoltaic systems; Power-voltage (P-V); Radiation effects; Renewable energy; Renewable energy sources; Short-circuit currents; Sustainable development; Voltage
• DOI: 10.1109/PowerAfrica49420.2020.9219875

Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert sunlight directly into electricity as one way of renewable energy-based power generation, a key aspect of achieving energy sustainability for sustainable economic growth. The paper as part of this goal presents an algorithm to identify various maximum power points (MPPs) on different environmental conditions of group of PV arrays. Three series connected PV arrays of similar electrical properties are considered in this paper. The conditions are grouped under three main forms; uniform test conditions (UTC), partial shading conditions 1 (PSC1) and partial shading conditions 2 (PSC2) to simulate different environmental conditions. Results obtained showed that the algorithm was able to identify all the MPPs; global or local where applicable on power-voltage (P-V) curve. For example, a global MPP of 915.7W was pinpointed on the P-V curve under standard test condition scenario type of UTC based on open circuit voltage and short circuit current of 46.3V and 8.87A respectively of the PV model selected. The result obtained would provide aid for subsequent researches involving the MPP tracking algorithm and voltage converter designs for the PV arrays.