Comparisons of different Maximum Power Point Tracking Strategies with Zeta Converter

Abstract

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) strategy is one of the major parameters affecting efficiency in photovoltaic (PV) systems. In this paper, distributed MPPT approaches are compared with central mode MPPT. Advantages and disadvantages of submodule level MPPT technique and module level MPPT approach are shown with simulation studies. Comparisons are made with incremental conductance (IC) algorithm. In this context, non-isolated zeta converter is used as a power-processing unit. Effect of the MPPT strategy on the collected energy performance is observed by simulation studies performed in MATLAB/Simulink. It is clear by these studies that energy capture is bigger in submodule level MPPT strategy and module level MPPT with respect to central mode which is seen by simulations. However, central mode MPPT offers cost effective solution because of the low hardware requirements.