Comparing efficiency of PV array connected to DC-DC converters applying modified P&O algorithm in real time hardware

Renewable energy using a Photovoltaic array (PVA) is becoming increasingly important in present and future world. To control the operating point to extract the maximum power (MP) from PV generator is essentially vital as the power generated by PVAs hinges on solar irradiance, temperature and PVA Voltage. To fix the MP point (MPP) of PVA, a good number of algorithms have been presented. One of them is P&O algorithm. However, the likelihood of a false detection of MPP is very high under rapidly changing atmospheric condition. In addition to this, due to change in reference voltage results in steady state oscillation. In this paper, a Modified P&O algorithm is implemented to overcome those problems. The MP&O algorithm is used through the DC-DC converters. This converter is governed by an intelligent controller. Furthermore, the results show that MPPT based on Buck-Boost converter reveals higher efficiency compared to Buck converter. A hardware prototype is used and tested in laboratory.