Maximum power point tracking technique based on sweeping the characteristic curve of the photovoltaic module

Abstract Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques play a very important role in photovoltaic (PV) systems considering that it is necessary to ensure the operation at the maximum power point (MPP) under random irradiance and/or temperature conditions. In this context, this work presents an MPPT technique based on sweeping the current versus voltage (I-V) characteristic of the PV device. A dc-dc single-ended primary inductance converter (SEPIC) topology connected to a fixed resistive load is responsible for obtaining the points that compose the aforementioned curve. Thus, it is possible to impose a proper duty ratio to the active switch and achieve the operation at the MPP. Prominent advantages of the algorithm include low implementation complexity and high efficiency, as well as the fact that it is not susceptible to fast changes in the atmospheric and partial shading conditions. An in-depth discussion of the concepts involving the proposed solution is presented. A thorough comparison with the well-known perturb and observe (P&O) and incremental conductance (INC) techniques is also performed.