Applying Improved Boost Converter and Simple Tracking Concept to Achieving MPPT under Shading Conditions

Abstract

Generally speaking, in order to effectively keep the output power of the solar array at the maximum output power, a DC-DC converter is indispensable for achieving the maximum power point tracking (MPPT). In addition, the output power created from the solar array is varied, and hence the DC-DC converter with a high voltage conversion ratio is needed to meet the load requirements. Therefore, a high step-up converter is presented herein, which is derived from the traditional boost converter and hence possesses simple structure, continuous input current and easiness of control. The effectiveness of this converter is demonstrated by some experimental results. After this, the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method with shading conditions considered is presented, which is realized by the proposed converter and the field programmable gate array (FPGA). Finally, the PV simulator, named PVS01203 made by Nippon Kernel System Co., Ltd., is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed MPPT method under shading conditions.