Model-Based MPPT for Shaded and Mismatched Modules of Photovoltaic Farm

Abstract

Photovoltaic modules (PVM) of same rating and manufacturer have unique characteristics in real time due to manufacturing dispersion. This unique maximum power point (MPP) of each module is tracked by the proven distributed module level maximum power point tracking (DMMPPT). Since the conventional slow iterative MPPT algorithms in DMMPPT fail under the rapidly varying environmental conditions, the model-based algorithm (MBA) is used in this paper due to its swift tracking and character leaning nature. By identifying the actual behavior of each module, the new MBA is implemented here in compensation power dc–dc converter for the distributed model-based maximum power point tracking (CPDC-DMBMPPT). The flyback converter-based CPDC converter, which provides the current or voltage compensation is used to operate the module in its own MPP without any compromise even at the mismatched or partial shaded condition. As the individual module parameters used in MBA are estimated during the installation, the costly high precision measuring instruments are avoided in the consumer site. Also, due to the LabVIEW-based centralized control, updates in the MBA becomes easy without changing the individual controllers in Photovoltaic farms. The proposed methodology and its proven outcomes are discussed through the simulation and hardware outputs.