MPPT performance of a grid-connected PV inverter under Malaysian conditions

Abstract

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) performance of grid-connected PV inverters are often evaluated by using synthetic irradiance profile such as steps and ramps or triangle ramps. Although this approach of testing the MPPT performance is easy to perform, it may not be representing the response of the inverter maximum power point (MPP) tracker under actual conditions such as that in Malaysia. The approach of this work is to use Malaysiapsilas daylight data as the input to a dynamic photovoltaic array simulator (PVAS). The PVAS output is then used to test the MPPT performance of a grid-connected inverter. This paper presents the results of the tests conducted that will allow some analysis to be done on the aspect of the inverter MPPT performance under Malaysian conditions.