A Novel Shift and Search (S&S) Algorithm for Tracking Maximum Power in PV Systems: An Approach to Increase Efficiency

Green energy endows the utmost environmental benefits, which include electric power produced from photovoltaic (PV) systems. The minimal conversion efficiency of PV systems (9–17%) decelerates the share in the energy market. One of the solutions to increase efficiency is efficient maximum power point tracking (MPPT) through precise controls. Within the available MPPT algorithms, the perturb and observe (P&O) is prominent due to its simplicity. However, its drawbacks slow down its usage. Most of the proposals involved in overcoming these drawbacks are hybrid nature, which increases the complexity. Alternately, this paper proposes shift and search (S&S) modified P&O algorithm, which not only retains the simplicity but also eliminates all the drawbacks of conventional algorithms with improved tracking efficiency. It is unique in its approach by having independent control over the steady state oscillations and the fast convergence, results in improved tracking efficiency. The performances of the proposed algorithm are validated in the simulation platform. Besides, the superiorities are verified by comparing with traditional and drift free P&O algorithms. The improved MPPT efficiency of the proposed technique aids in extracting the maximum power from solar energy.