Comparison of direct maximum power point tracking algorithms using EN 50530 dynamic test procedure

Abstract

Three direct maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms with non-adaptive voltage step are evaluated in the light of their performance for photovoltaic systems under dynamic conditions for a resistive load. A microcontroller-based buck–boost DC–DC converter platform is used to implement and compare the algorithms. Dynamic test procedures from a new standard for inverter efficiency determination EN 50530 were implemented to evaluate dynamic MPPT algorithms’ efficiency and their dependence.Experimental results show that MPPT algorithms’ regulating frequency and regulating voltage step play a crucial role in the dynamic performance of direct algorithms. A range of regulating frequencies and voltage steps were examined. If proper parameter values are chosen, all algorithms perform well and close to each other. Detailed evaluation was performed with determining partial MPPT efficiency under different irradiance slopes. Results show that at least 10 Hz should be used to satisfy the 99% tracking efficiency over all slopes in the range from 0.5 to 100 W/m2/s as specified by EN 50530 standard. Further increase of regulating frequency would result in higher slope efficiency only at dynamic conditions.