A Novel Approach to Harness Maximum Power from Solar PV Panel

Among alternate sources of electricity, Solar Photo Voltaic (PV) energy is gaining prominence due to its plentiful availability. It is not being opted for in large numbers as grid parity of cost has not been achieved. By harnessing more power per unit installed capacity of the solar panel, the cost can be reduced. One of the methods of realizing this is by Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) wherein a power electronic converter is used to match the load with the PV panel. Widely employed approach for MPPT is to monitor the power generated by the PV panel and keep on adjusting the duty cycle of converter so that this power is always maximum.

Present paper proposes a novel method to realize MPPT for standalone solar PV system with resistive (R) load. It is shown that the output power becomes the maximum when the load voltage becomes the maximum. Conversely, varying the duty cycle of the converter such that load voltage is always maximum leads to harnessing maximum power output. This approach can be referred to as Maximum Load Voltage Point Tracking (MLVPT). Only one parameter i.e. load voltage needs to be monitored. It is simpler than monitoring PV panel power as in that case it’s necessary to measure both panel voltage and current and then fi nd their product.

The proposal of MLVPT for realizing MPPT is substantiated by theoretical explanation. Simulation as well as experimentation are also carried out. The results are found to be in close conformity with the theoretical fi ndings.