Variable Perturbation Size Adaptive P&O MPPT Algorithm for Sudden Changes in Irradiance

In this paper, a variable perturbation size adaptive perturb and observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is proposed to track the maximum power under sudden changes in irradiance. The proposed method consists of three algorithms, namely current perturbation algorithm (CPA), adaptive control algorithm (ACA), and variable perturbation algorithm (VPA). CPA always tries to operate the photovoltaic (PV) panel at maximum power point (MPP). ACA sets the operating point closer to MPP, only if the operating limits are violated. These operating limits are expressed in terms of the operating current range of the PV panel and the sudden changes in irradiance. VPA dynamically reduces the perturbation size based on polarity of change in power. Two-stage variable size perturbation is proposed in this paper. The proposed algorithm is realized using a boost converter. The effectiveness of proposed algorithm in terms of dynamic performance and improved stability is validated by detailed simulation and experimental studies.