Single Sensor Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithm for Photovoltaic Applications

Abstract

A power converter coupled to a photovoltaic power source is capable of manipulating the voltage potential and current flowing from the power source. By controlling the voltage or current, a converter can maximize the power output of the solar panel. The process by which the converter controls the solar panel output so as to maximize the output power is called maximum power point tracking, or MPPT. Other researchers have developed numerous MPPT algorithms, most of which rely on two or more sensors to track a maximum power point voltage or maximum power point current. The focus of this thesis is to propose a new MPPT algorithm which uses one voltage sensor to accurately track the maximum power point. Other known MPPT algorithms will also be discussed and compared to the proposed method.