S. Saravanan

Bio: S. Saravanan is an academic researcher from College of Information Technology. The author has contributed to research in topics: Boost converter & Maximum power point tracking. The author has an hindex of 7, co-authored 30 publications receiving 460 citations. Previous affiliations of S. Saravanan include VIT University & Sri Krishna College of Engineering & Technology.

Maximum power point tracking algorithms for photovoltaic system – A review

Abstract: This paper provides a comprehensive review on various maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms based on Perturb and Observe, Incremental Conductance, Soft Computing and other techniques along with the real time hardware implementation of photovoltaic (PV) system. In this review, the complete procedure, the implementation methodology and their effects in the PV output were discussed in detail for each algorithm. Further, MPPT algorithms for PV systems with partial shading condition were reviewed and reported. This paper is intended to serve as a suitable reference for future work in PV based power generation and its related research.

Design and Development of Single Switch High Step-Up DC–DC Converter

Abstract: In this paper, a new single switch high step-up dc–dc converter with high voltage gain is proposed. The proposed topology is developed by combining boost and single-ended primary inductor converter with diode–capacitor circuit to reduce the stress across the semiconductor devices. The proposed converter produces low switching voltage and hence it improves its efficiency. The operating principle and the steady-state performance analysis are discussed. The performance of the converter is validated by developing a prototype circuit with input voltage of 30 V, output voltage of 300 V, and output power rating of 250 W. The theoretical analysis and experimental results conclude the proposed converter that is suitable for high-voltage applications.

Maximum power point tracking algorithms for photovoltaic system – A review

Abstract: This paper provides a comprehensive review on various maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms based on Perturb and Observe, Incremental Conductance, Soft Computing and other techniques along with the real time hardware implementation of photovoltaic (PV) system. In this review, the complete procedure, the implementation methodology and their effects in the PV output were discussed in detail for each algorithm. Further, MPPT algorithms for PV systems with partial shading condition were reviewed and reported. This paper is intended to serve as a suitable reference for future work in PV based power generation and its related research.

A new variable step size neural networks MPPT controller: Review, simulation and hardware implementation

Abstract: In this paper, two new Artificial Neural Network MPPT controllers based on fixed and variable step size have been proposed and investigated. The data required to generate the ANN model are generated using the classical Perturbation and Observation algorithm. The neural network MPPT controller is developed in two steps: the offline step required for training of different neural networks parameters in order to find the optimal neural network MPPT controller (structure, activation function and training algorithm) and the Online step where the optimal neural network MPPT controller is used in PV system. The performance of the proposed variable step size and fixed step size ANN-MPPT methods are analyzed under different operating conditions using Matlab/Simulink. To validate the simulated system hardware implementation of the proposed algorithms was carried out using experimental prototype MPPT based on Flyback converter connected to Solarex MSX-60 (4 panels) and dsPIC30F4011 control circuit. Analysis and comparative study between the proposed fixed and variable step size ANN-MPPT controllers have been presented, showing a real contributions in term of tracking accuracy, response time, overshoot and steady state ripple. In addition, this paper can be considered as a review study on ANN-MPPT methods for PV systems.

Review of advanced grid requirements for the integration of large scale photovoltaic power plants in the transmission system

Abstract: The installation of large scale photovoltaic power plants connected at transmission level has increased during the last years. There are some challenges that these power plants have to overcome regarding the operation and control while dealing with the solar energy variability and uncertainty. Today, few countries are aware of the importance of this source of energy as part of the utility system and how it can affect the operability. Thus, this paper discusses about the trend of large scale photovoltaic power plants around the world and the importance of the development of grid codes for its integration. Then, the paper addresses a comparison of the grid codes of Germany, US, Puerto Rico, Romania, China and South Africa considering: fault ride through capability, frequency and voltage regulation, as well as active and reactive power support. In addition, a broad discussion about the challenges that the large scale photovoltaic power plants have to overcome is presented together with the compliance technology and future trend.