A new approach in maximum power point tracking for a photovoltaic array with power management system using Fibonacci search algorithm under partial shading conditions

Abstract

This paper deals with maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of a photovoltaic (PV) system under partially shaded conditions and active power support to the grid with power quality improvement at the point of common coupling (PCC). The overall system also provides an efficient power management among the various power sources, i.e., photovoltaic system, battery, and grid. The proposed MPPT algorithm is based on two important aspects, i.e., power versus voltage characteristic curve of the PV array under normal as well as partial shading conditions and a modified Fibonacci search algorithm. The PV power conditioning system is connected to the grid through an inverter and a DC-link capacitor. The inverter works both as a DC–AC converter for the PV system and as an active power filter for compensation of harmonics and reactive power. This system is cost-effective as a single inverter is used for both power quality improvement and power flow control from the PV system to the grid. Under unavailability of main AC supply, the operation is switched over to the standalone mode in which the PV system along with the battery is used to meet the load power demand. The performances of the above system are verified by simulation studies in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment and on a real time experimental prototype system using dSPACE controller.