Publication: Solar tracker modelling and simulation
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Date
2024-07
Authors
Lee, Kah Choong
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Abstract
This research investigates enhancing the efficiency of energy conversion generated by a PV array connected to a buck converter regulated through PWM,
optimized by the P&O MPPT algorithm to ensure maximum efficient energy transfer. However, inefficiencies from ineffective MPPT algorithms and poor converter design cause an inability to track the maximum power point and oscillation around it, impacting tracking speed and leading to suboptimal energy conversion. The study aims to evaluate the photovoltaic array system utilizing the proposed P&O MPPT algorithm and buck converter under partial shading conditions at 25°C. This aligns with the research objective of implementing a DC-DC converter and P&O MPPT algorithm to achieve optimal efficiency. The proposed algorithm and buck converter are designed and simulated in MATLAB/SIMULINK to validate the performance of the suggested technique. The system is examined under three different levels of partial shading conditions: weak, moderate, and strong partial shading, to provide robust and comprehensive testing and a guaranteed assessment of the proposed algorithm. Generally, with k = 0.00001, the system achieves efficiencies of approximately 99.90% to 100.15% for the MPPT algorithm, 90.97% to 95.89% for the buck converter, and an overall system efficiency of about 91.02% to 96.03%. The response times for achieving stable efficiency settling range from around 13 to 14 milliseconds, with battery charging times taking about 9 to 10 milliseconds. In summary, the PV array system's ability to maintain high efficiency and stable output under uniform irradiation conditions demonstrates its suitability for various practical applications, successfully achieving all project objectives.