An algorithm for the fast estimate of the maximum power voltages in PV applications adopting microconverters

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the main parameters influencing the performances of Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking (DMPPT) and to present an algorithm aimed at the maximization of the energetic efficiency of the grid-connected PhotoVoltaic (PV) systems. Such an algorithm is based on the estimate of the optimal operating range of the input inverter voltage and of the optimal operating voltages of the PV modules. Design/methodology/approach – The Fast Estimate of the Maximum Power Voltages algorithm, described in this paper, is based on the idea that the controllers of the DC/DC converters (DMPPT function) and the controller of the inverter (Central MPPT function) must be able to exchange useful data in order to carry out a suitable technique based on the jointed adoption of DMPPT and CMPPT function. Such a technique is essentially based on the knowledge, even if in approximate form, of the Power vs Voltage (P-V) characteristic of a string composed by PV modules and DC/DC convert...

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