MPPT algorithm for PV array connected to a Hybrid Generation System

In this paper, a modified algorithm based on the gradient descent method is proposed for determining, in real time, the maximum power provided by a PV Array connected to an Hybrid Generation System (HGS). In this system the PV array is connected to the dc-link of a back-to-back converter to drive a three-phase induction motor from a single-phase power grid. While the PV array operates at its maximum power, the remaining power is drawn or delivered to the power grid according to the load power demands. The proposed algorithm reduces the convergence time period and minimizes the residual error around the Maximum Power Point (MPP) value. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is analyzed through simulation results to evaluate its performance under transient and steady-state conditions. Furthermore, its dynamics is compared with the well-known “Perturb and Observe” (P&O) MPPT algorithm.