This paper presents modeling and simulation of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) used in solar PV power systems. The Fuzzy logic algorithm is used to minimize the error between the actual power and the estimated maximum power. The simulation model was developed and tested to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed MPPT controller. MATLAB Simulink was employed for simulation studies. The proposed system was simulated and tested successfully on a photovoltaic solar panel model. The Fuzzy logic algorithm succesfully tracking the MPPs and performs precise control under rapidly changing atmospheric conditions. Simulation results indicate the feasibility and improved functionality of the system.
Keyword:Fuzzy logic algorithm Maximum power point tracking MPPT Photovoltaic Simulink
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Corresponding Author:Ahmad Saudi Samosir, Departement of Electrical Engineering, University of Lampung, No. 1, Jln. Prof. Soemantri Brojonegoro, Bandar Lampung, 35152, Indonesia. Email: ahmad.saudi@eng.unila.ac.id
INTRODUCTIONThe growing energy demand of the world and the tremendous risk of climate change associated with the use of fossil fuels have driven research and development of alternative energy sources that are clean, efficient, renewable and environmentally friendly. Among all renewable energy sources, solar power systems attract more attention because they have several advantages such as pollution-free, low maintenance costs and low operating costs. Their sources of energy, which is derived from solar energy, are also widely available and it is free [1]- [4].In solar power system, the solar energy is directly converted into electrical energy by solar PV module. The main components of solar PV systems are solar cells made from semiconductor materials that have a photovoltaic effect, which serves to convert solar energy into direct current electricity. When exposed to sunlight; the solar panels will generate the direct current electricity, which is ready to supply power to the load. Solar Panels do not need much maintenance and have no moving parts. The unfavorable issue with solar PV systems is the high installing cost and the variation of energy form the solar panel with environmental conditions. In order to attain the maximum efficiency from the solar panel, it is important to obtain the maximum available power at any operating condition [5]. Also, the power distribution across the system has to be managed. Storage devices are used so that the energy is stored or supplied according to the availability of sufficient power and the load requirements [6].The efficiency of solar cells depends on many factors such as temperature, irradiance, spectral characteristics of sunlight, dirt, shadow, and so on. Changes in insolation on panels due to fast climatic changes such as cloudy weather and increase in ambient temperature can reduce the photovoltaic (PV) array