A novel solar PV MPPT scheme utilizing the difference between panel and atmospheric temperature

Abstract

This paper puts forward a novel technique employing the thermocouple for tracking maximum power point (MPP) in the photovoltaic systems. This is a rapid and accurate method for tracking the MPP by means of the thermocouple installed beneath the PV panel. It is observed that the temperature of the panel is higher than the atmospheric temperature and this difference in temperature is used in the proposed maximum power point tracker (MPPT). The technique performs swift and efficient tracking as compared to conventional methods. The main lead of this method is that it tracks voltage which has a direct relationship with duty cycle of the converter instead of tracking power. This makes the analysis simpler. Also the thermocouple employed (when used on large scale) can act as an additional power source. The algorithm can be easily implemented and produces accurate results. The system can be comprehended using simple circuitry. The behavior and performance of the proposed MPPT is shown by simulation and experiment. The exploration is accomplished using the Kotak KM-0018 SPV module. The practical experimentation is performed and the results are found to be in conformity with the simulation results with minor deviations.