Compound control strategy for maximum power point tracking with flexible step-up converters for thin film photovoltaic module applications

This paper proposes a novel maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm for a thin-film photovoltaic (PV) module with a flexible step-up DC–DC converter. To improve the voltage rating for the thin film module, a switch-inductor zero voltage transition (SIZVT) boost converter is proposed. In addition, the proposed methodology uses a multistage variable step size (MVSS) with a power close-loop control strategy (PCLC) for MPPT. The corresponding performances are compared with the classical fixed step size (FSS) algorithm and the conventional variable step size (CVSS) algorithm. Simulation results in MATLAB/Simulink and experimental tests with a 240 W prototype validate the proposed algorithm under a variety of conditions.