Design of Fuzzy Logic based Maximum Power Point Tracking controller for solar array for cloudy weather conditions

Abstract

This paper proposes Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of a photovoltaic system under variable temperature and solar radiation conditions using Fuzzy Logic Algorithm. The cost of electricity from the PV array is more expensive than the electricity from the other non- renewable sources. So, it is necessary to operate the PV system at maximum efficiency by tracking its maximum power point at any weather conditions [1]. Boost converter increases output voltage of the solar panel and converter output voltage depends upon the duty cycle of the MOSFET present in the boost converter. The change in the duty cycle is done by Fuzzy logic controller by sensing the power output of the solar panel. The proposed controller is aimed at adjusting the duty cycle of the DC-DC converter switch to track the maximum power of a solar cell array. MATLAB/Simulink is used to develop and design the PV array system equipped with the proposed MPPT controller using fuzzy logic [2][3]. The results show that the proposed controller is able to track the MPP in a shorter time with less fluctuation. The complete hardware setup with fuzzy logic controller is implemented and the results are observed and compared with the system without MPPT (Fuzzy logic controller).