An improved analog maximum power point tracking circuit for solar cells suitable for abrupt variations in irradiation levels

Abstract

This document exposes the architecture and performance of an improved Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) circuit, applied to a high power solar cell. The circuit uses event-based control, such that the solar cell power oscillates between maximum value and a limit falling factor of its maximum. The circuit is composed in general by analog components as comparators, switches, attenuators and incorporates an antidivergence system suitable for abrupt variations in irradiation levels. The proposed MPPT converges to the Maximum Power Point (MPP) even with abrupt changes in irradiation from one kilowatts to one-hundred watts per square meter. The results show a tracking efficiency greater that ninety-seven percent and a maximum average efficiency greater than ninety-eight percent.