Abstract
Maximised power output and efficiency in a photovoltaic (PV) system for specific conditions can be obtained by using a maximum power point tracking technique (MPPT). Many tracking algorithms have been developed for this purpose. This paper presents the design and methodology used to create a photovoltaic charge controller that uses the algorithm developed for maximum power point tracking. The charge controller presented in this work is not only designed to maximise the power from the solar module but also contains added features that make the system beneficial to the researcher. The suggested system has used Perturb and Observe (P&O) MPPT method for the design and implementation. In this technique, the controller delivers the PWM (pulse-width modulation) signal using the Arduino microcontroller to regulate the voltage. A DC-DC (direct current-direct current) synchronous Buck converter is used to interface the PV module with the load. The results are gained for two systems:using a microprocessor controlled MPPT operating from a PV module, and a PV module connecting directly to the load. It is found that the MPPT is effective, providing the highest power to the operating load under changing outdoor conditions. The experimental results indicate that for cloudy days, it is suitable to use MPPT control, which that will enhance the PV production power compared to situation in which the PV module is directly connected to a fixed resistance.
Highlights
Research is concerned with increasing solar module efficiency and lowering it is costs due to fact that solar energy has increasingly good potential
This includes the solar module, the charge controller and an Arduino microcontroller in which the maximum power point tracking technique (MPPT) algorithm was implemented. These tests were carried out to measure the characteristics of the Buck converter and the MPPT charge controller
This work presented the design for a MPPT charge controller based on the Arduino microcontroller
Summary
Research is concerned with increasing solar module efficiency and lowering it is costs due to fact that solar energy has increasingly good potential. One of the indirect methods to maximise solar module efficiency involves the use of MPPT, in which solar panels provide electricity to an on-grid or off-grid connection such as charging batteries. There is a unique point on the knee of this curve, known as the maximum power point (MPP) In this way, the panel produces maximum power and operates with maximum efficiency. If the solar module is connected directly to a load, via a so-called “directcoupled” system, the I-V curve and load line intersection are the operating point of the systems. The algorithm introduces the variable of perturbation as a reference value for the terminal current of the PV panel, a terminal voltage of the PV panel, or the duty cycle of the MPPT converter
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