Dual maximization of solar power for medium power application

Abstract

Solar energy utilization is gaining much importance these days owing to energy crisis and large power rating panels are used even for residential applications. The panels used in these medium power applications are usually fixed at a particular tilting angle. To extract power up to maximum by all possible ways, Dual Maximization Technique is proposed. Maximum Power Point Tracking and Mechanical Solar Tracking is used for Dual Maximization. Proposed system utilize active solar tracking to keep panel aligned to position of sun. The low power motors such as stepper motors and dc motors, which are usually used for tracking applications are not capable of handling torque requirement for tilting these heavy panels. This paper analyzes the use of induction motor for the tracking purpose. Induction motor used in this proposed system consumes only few watts of power which can be provided by the panel itself. For the proper control of induction motor at low speed, which is required for this application, a Variable Frequency Control is used. As no external input is required, except during initial implementation, it acts like a self supporting system. P&O algorithm is implemented as a part of dual maximization method. Simulation of the system is done in MATLAB-SIMULINK.