A novel maximum power extraction technique for rapidly changing NUI conditions

Output characteristics of a Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) array depend on conditions like solar irradiation, temperature and Non-Uniform Illumination (NUI) scenarios. In dynamic NUI condition, the SPV array output characteristics exhibit multiple power peaks. The conventional power extraction techniques are inept in tracing the global peaks in such multiple peak scenarios. Intelligent Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP) tracking techniques are imperative in order to effectively utilize the power generated. In this work, a novel technology dependent algorithm is proposed which makes use of the irradiation and temperature data from respective sensors and efficiently converges to the global peak with least array scanning and hardware requirements. Based on the sensor data, the algorithm instantaneously predicts a narrowed zone to scan the maximum power peak. The global power point will be tracked by adjusting the PWM duty of power converter in a predetermined narrow range.