Showing papers on "Maximum power point tracking published in 2014"

Supervisory Control of an Adaptive-Droop Regulated DC Microgrid With Battery Management Capability

Abstract: DC power systems are gaining an increasing interest in renewable energy applications because of the good matching with dc output type sources such as photovoltaic (PV) systems and secondary batteries. In this paper, several distributed generators (DGs) have been merged together with a pair of batteries and loads to form an autonomous dc microgrid (MG). To overcome the control challenge associated with coordination of multiple batteries within one stand-alone MG, a double-layer hierarchical control strategy was proposed. 1) The unit-level primary control layer was established by an adaptive voltage-droop method aimed to regulate the common bus voltage and to sustain the states of charge (SOCs) of batteries close to each other during moderate replenishment. The control of every unit was expanded with unit-specific algorithm, i.e., finish-of-charging for batteries and maximum power-point tracking (MPPT) for renewable energy sources, with which a smooth online overlap was designed and 2) the supervisory control layer was designed to use the low-bandwidth communication interface between the central controller and sources in order to collect data needed for adaptive calculation of virtual resistances (VRs) as well as transit criteria for changing unit-level operating modes. A small-signal stability for the whole range of VRs. The performance of developed control was assessed through experimental results.

Modified Incremental Conductance Algorithm for Photovoltaic System Under Partial Shading Conditions and Load Variation

Abstract: Under partial shading conditions, multiple peaks are observed in the power-voltage (P- V) characteristic curve of a photovoltaic (PV) array, and the conventional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms may fail to track the global maximum power point (GMPP). Therefore, this paper proposes a modified incremental conductance (Inc Cond) algorithm that is able to track the GMPP under partial shading conditions and load variation. A novel algorithm is introduced to modulate the duty cycle of the dc-dc converter in order to ensure fast MPPT process. Simulation and hardware implementation are carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm under partial shading and load variation. The results show that the proposed algorithm is able to track the GMPP accurately under different types of partial shading conditions, and the response during variation of load and solar irradiation are faster than the conventional Inc Cond algorithm. Hence, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm under partial shading condition and load variation is validated in this paper.

Coordinated V-f and P-Q Control of Solar Photovoltaic Generators With MPPT and Battery Storage in Microgrids

Abstract: The microgrid concept allows small distributed energy resources (DERs) to act in a coordinated manner to provide a necessary amount of active power and ancillary service when required. This paper proposes an approach of coordinated and integrated control of solar PV generators with the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control and battery storage control to provide voltage and frequency (V-f) support to an islanded microgrid. Also, active and nonactive/reactive power (P-Q) control with solar PV, MPPT and battery storage is proposed for the grid connected mode. The control strategies show effective coordination between inverter V-f (or P-Q) control, MPPT control, and energy storage charging and discharging control. The paper also shows an effective coordination among participating microresources while considering the case of changing irradiance and battery state of charge (SOC) constraint. The simulation studies are carried out with the IEEE 13-bus feeder test system in grid connected and islanded microgrid modes. The results clearly verify the effectiveness of proposed control methods. The simulations are carried out in Matlab and Simpowersystems.

MPPT of PV Systems Under Partial Shaded Conditions Through a Colony of Flashing Fireflies

Abstract: This paper reports the development of a maximum power-point tracking (MPPT) method for photovoltaic (PV) systems under partially shaded conditions using firefly algorithm. The major advantages of the proposed method are simple computational steps, faster convergence, and its implementation on a low-cost microcontroller. The proposed scheme is studied for two different configurations of PV arrays under partial shaded conditions and its tracking performance is compared with traditional perturb and observe (P&O) method and particle swarm optimization (PSO) method under identical conditions. The improved performance of the algorithm in terms of tracking efficiency and tracking speed is validated through simulation and experimental studies.

A Maximum Power Point Tracking Method Based on Perturb-and-Observe Combined With Particle Swarm Optimization

Abstract: Conventional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods such as perturb-and-observe (P&O) method can only track the first local maximum point and stop progressing to the next maximum point. MPPT methods based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) have been proposed to track the global maximum point (GMP). However, the problem with the PSO method is that the time required for convergence may be long if the range of the search space is large. This paper proposes a hybrid method, which combines P&O and PSO methods. Initially, the P&O method is employed to allocate the nearest local maximum. Then, starting from that point on, the PSO method is employed to search for the GMP. The advantage of using the proposed hybrid method is that the search space for the PSO is reduced, and hence, the time that is required for convergence can be greatly improved. The excellent performance of the proposed hybrid method is verified by comparing it against the PSO method using an experimental setup.

Low-Voltage Ride-Through of Single-Phase Transformerless Photovoltaic Inverters

Abstract: Transformerless photovoltaic (PV) inverters are going to be more widely adopted in order to achieve high efficiency, as the penetration level of PV systems is continuously booming. However, problems may arise in highly PV-integrated distribution systems. For example, a sudden stoppage of all PV systems due to anti-islanding protection may contribute to grid disturbances. Thus, standards featuring with ancillary services for the next-generation PV systems are under a revision in some countries. The future PV systems have to provide a full range of services as what the conventional power plants do, e.g., low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) under grid faults and grid support service. In order to map future challenges, the LVRT capability of three mainstream single-phase transformerless PV inverters under grid faults is explored in this paper. Control strategies with reactive power injection are also discussed. The selected inverters are the full-bridge (FB) inverter with bipolar modulation, the FB inverter with dc bypass, and the Highly Efficient and Reliable Inverter Concept (HERIC). A 1-kW single-phase grid-connected PV system is analyzed to verify the discussions. The tests confirmed that, although the HERIC inverter is the best candidate in terms of efficiency, it is not very particularly feasible in case of a voltage sag. The other two topologies are capable of providing reactive current during LVRT. A benchmarking of those inverters is also provided in this paper, which offers the possibility to select appropriate devices and to further optimize the transformerless system.

Coordinated Control of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Reactive Power and Battery Energy Storage Systems to Improve the Voltage Profile of a Residential Distribution Feeder

Abstract: Increasing penetration of photovoltaic (PV), as well as increasing peak load demand, has resulted in poor voltage profile for some residential distribution networks. This paper proposes coordinated use of PV and battery energy storage (BES) to address voltage rise and/or dip problems. The reactive capability of PV inverter combined with droop-based BES system is evaluated for rural and urban scenarios (having different \mbi R/X ratios). Results show that reactive compensation from PV inverters alone is sufficient to maintain acceptable voltage profile in an urban scenario (low-resistance feeder), whereas coordinated PV and BES support is required for the rural scenario (high-resistance feeder). Constant, as well as variable, droop-based BES schemes are analyzed. The required BES sizing and associated cost to maintain the acceptable voltage profile under both schemes are presented. Uncertainties in PV generation and load are considered, with probabilistic estimation of PV generation and randomness in load modeled to characterize the effective utilization of BES. Actual PV generation data and distribution system network data are used to verify the efficacy of the proposed method.

Optimal PV Inverter Reactive Power Control and Real Power Curtailment to Improve Performance of Unbalanced Four-Wire LV Distribution Networks

Abstract: The rapid uptake of residential photovoltaic (PV) systems is causing serious power quality issues such as significant voltage fluctuation and unbalance that are restricting the ability of networks to accommodate further connections. Based on the latent reactive power capability and real power curtailment of single-phase inverters, this paper proposes a new comprehensive PV operational optimization strategy to improve the performance of significantly unbalanced three-phase four-wire low voltage (LV) distribution networks with high residential PV penetrations. A multiobjective optimal power flow (OPF) problem that can simultaneously improve voltage magnitude and balance profiles, while minimizing network losses and generation costs, is defined and then converted into an aggregated single-objective OPF problem using the weighted-sum method, which can be effectively solved by the global Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) approach with multiple starting points in MATLAB. Detailed simulations are performed and analyzed for various operating scenarios over 24 h on a real unbalanced four-wire LV distribution network in Perth Solar City trial, Australia. Finally, smart meter readings are used to justify the validity and accuracy of the proposed optimization model and considerations on the application of the proposed PV control strategy are also presented.

Distributed Control Systems for Small-Scale Power Networks: Using Multiagent Cooperative Control Theory

Abstract: Existing electric power distribution networks are operating near full capacity and facing rapid changes to address environmental concerns and improve their reliability and sustainability. These concerns are satisfied through the effective integration and coordination of distributed generators (DGs), which facilitate the exploitation of renewable energy resources, including wind power, photovoltaics, and fuel cells [1]. Although DGs can be of rotating machinery type, more recently, DGs have been designed to support renewable energy resources by electronic interfacing through voltage source inverters (VSI). Each DG corresponds to one energy source, and its control inputs are given to the interface VSI [1]-[5]. The successful coordination of DGs can be realized through microgrids, which are small-scale power systems consisting of local generation, local loads, and energy storage systems. Microgrids are autonomous subsystems with dedicated control systems that provide guaranteed power quality for local loads such as hospitals, economic centers, apartments, and universities. The microgrid concept, with its local control and power quality support, allows for the scalable integration of local power resources and loads into the existing power grid and enables a high penetration of distributed generation [5]-[10].

Predictive Control of a Three-Level Boost Converter and an NPC Inverter for High-Power PMSG-Based Medium Voltage Wind Energy Conversion Systems

Abstract: In this paper, a new medium voltage power converter topology using a diode rectifier, three-level boost (TLB) converter, and neutral-point-clamped (NPC) inverter is proposed for a high-power permanent magnet synchronous generator-based wind energy conversion system. The generator-side TLB converter performs the maximum power point tracking and balancing of dc-link capacitor voltages, while the grid-side NPC inverter regulates the net dc-bus voltage and reactive power to the grid. A significant improvement in the grid power quality is accomplished as the NPC inverter no longer controls the dc-link neutral point voltage. A model predictive strategy is proposed to control the complete system where the discrete-time models of the proposed power electronic converters are used to predict the future behavior of control variables. These predictions are evaluated using two independent cost functions, and the switching states which minimize these cost functions are selected and applied to the generator- and grid-side converters directly. In order to comply with the high-power application, the switching frequencies of the TLB converter and NPC inverter are minimized and maintained below 1.5 and 1 kHz, respectively. The proposed topology and control strategy are verified through MATLAB simulations on a 3-MW/3000-V/577-A system and dSPACE DS1103-based experiments on 3.6-kW/208-V/10-A prototype.

Fuzzy-Logic-Controller-Based SEPIC Converter for Maximum Power Point Tracking

Abstract: This paper presents a fuzzy logic controller (FLC)-based single-ended primary-inductor converter (SEPIC) for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) operation of a photovoltaic (PV) system. The FLC proposed presents that the convergent distribution of the membership function offers faster response than the symmetrically distributed membership functions. The fuzzy controller for the SEPIC MPPT scheme shows high precision in current transition and keeps the voltage without any changes, in the variable-load case, represented in small steady-state error and small overshoot. The proposed scheme ensures optimal use of PV array and proves its efficacy in variable load conditions, unity, and lagging power factor at the inverter output (load) side. The real-time implementation of the MPPT SEPIC converter is done by a digital signal processor (DSP), i.e., TMS320F28335. The performance of the converter is tested in both simulation and experiment at different operating conditions. The performance of the proposed FLC-based MPPT operation of SEPIC converter is compared to that of the conventional proportional-integral (PI)-based SEPIC converter. The results show that the proposed FLC-based MPPT scheme for SEPIC can accurately track the reference signal and transfer power around 4.8% more than the conventional PI-based system.

Variable Perturbation Size Adaptive P&O MPPT Algorithm for Sudden Changes in Irradiance

Abstract: In this paper, a variable perturbation size adaptive perturb and observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is proposed to track the maximum power under sudden changes in irradiance. The proposed method consists of three algorithms, namely current perturbation algorithm (CPA), adaptive control algorithm (ACA), and variable perturbation algorithm (VPA). CPA always tries to operate the photovoltaic (PV) panel at maximum power point (MPP). ACA sets the operating point closer to MPP, only if the operating limits are violated. These operating limits are expressed in terms of the operating current range of the PV panel and the sudden changes in irradiance. VPA dynamically reduces the perturbation size based on polarity of change in power. Two-stage variable size perturbation is proposed in this paper. The proposed algorithm is realized using a boost converter. The effectiveness of proposed algorithm in terms of dynamic performance and improved stability is validated by detailed simulation and experimental studies.

A comprehensive review of maximum power point tracking algorithms for photovoltaic systems

Abstract: In recent decades, Photovoltaic (PV) energy has made significant progress towards meeting the continuously increasing world energy demand. Besides that, the issue of conventional fossil fuels depletion as well as environmental pollution both contribute to the growth of PV technology. However, the deployment and implementation of photovoltaic systems remain as a great challenge, since the PV material cost is still very high. The low PV module conversion efficiency is another factor that restricts the wide usage of PV systems, therefore a power converter embedded with the capability of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) integrated with PV systems is essential to further the technology. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the available MPPT techniques, both the uniform insolation and partial shaded conditions. In order to appreciate the knowledge of MPPT concepts, several types of PV cell equivalent models are explained too. Conventional MPPT techniques have proven the ability to track the maximum power point (MPP) under uniform solar irradiance. However, under rapidly changing environments and partially shaded conditions, conventional techniques have failed to track the true MPP. For this reason, stochastic based methods and artificial intelligence have been developed with the ability to seek the true MPP under multiple peaks with good convergence speed. This paper analyses and compares both conventional and stochastic MPPT techniques based on the true MPP tracking capability, design complexity, cost consideration, sensitivity to environmental change and convergence speed. Comparatively, the stochastic algorithms and artificial intelligence show excellent tracking performance. The research on MPPT techniques is ongoing towards achieving a better performance in terms of the ease of implementation, low system cost and better tracking efficiency.

Classification and Comparative Evaluation of PV Panel-Integrated DC–DC Converter Concepts

Abstract: The strings of photovoltaic panels have a significantly reduced power output when mismatch between the panels occurs, as, e.g., caused by partial shading. With mismatch, either the panel-integrated diodes are bypassing the shaded panels if the string is operated at the current level of the unshaded panels, or some power of the unshaded panels is lost if the string current is reduced to the level of the shaded panels. With the implementation of dc-dc converters on panel level, the maximum available power can be extracted from each panel regardless of any mismatch. In this paper, different concepts of PV panel-integrated dc-dc converters are presented and their suitability for panel integration is evaluated. The buck-boost converter is identified as the most promising concept and an efficiency/power density ( η- ρ) Pareto optimization of this topology is shown. Based on the optimization results, two 275 W converter prototypes with either Silicon MOSFETs with a switching frequency of 100 kHz or gallium nitride FETs with a switching frequency of 400 kHz are designed for an input voltage range of 15 to 45 V and an output voltage range of 10 to 100 V. The theoretical considerations are verified by efficiency measurements which are compared to the characteristics of a commercial panel-integrated converter.

A Novel Adaptive P&O MPPT Algorithm Considering Sudden Changes in the Irradiance

Abstract: In this paper, a short-circuit current-based adaptive perturb and observe maximum power point tracking algorithm is proposed to extract the maximum power from photovoltaic (PV) panel under sudden changes in the irradiance. This scheme is divided into two algorithms: 1) current perturbation algorithm; and 2) adaptive control algorithm. The current perturbation algorithm makes the PV panel operate at maximum power point. The adaptive control algorithm identifies the operating limit violation and sets a new operating point nearer to maximum power point. These limits are derived in terms of changes in the irradiance and current. The new operating point is set by estimating the short-circuit current. This algorithm proposes variable current perturbation, which varies continuously with the irradiance. A boost converter is used to realize the proposed algorithm. The proposed algorithm is compared with a conventional algorithm and validated for sudden changes in the irradiance through the experimental results.

Power Smoothing of Large Solar PV Plant Using Hybrid Energy Storage

Abstract: This paper proposes a power smoothing strategy for a 1-MW grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant. A hybrid energy storage system (HESS) composed of a vanadium redox battery and a supercapacitor bank is used to smooth the fluctuating output power of the PV plant. The power management of the HESS is purposely designed to reduce the required power rating of the SCB to only one-fifth of the VRB rating and to avoid the operation of the VRB at low power levels, thus increasing its overall efficiency. The PV plant including the HESS has been modeled using MATLAB/Simulink and PLECS software environment. The effectiveness of the proposed power control strategy is confirmed through extensive simulation results.

Combined Central and Local Active and Reactive Power Control of PV Inverters

Abstract: The increasing amount of photovoltaic (PV) generation results in a reverse power flow and a violation of the overvoltage limits in distribution networks. PV inverters can curtail active power or consume reactive power to avoid these excessive high voltages. Local controllers of active and reactive power that are based on measurements of the produced PV power have a fast response to the changing production levels of the PV installation. The performance of these local controllers depends on the tuning of the control parameters, which are grid and time dependent. In this paper, local control functions are defined as piecewise linear functions. The parameters of all the local control functions are regularly reoptimized. This results in an optimal use of reactive power and a minimum amount of curtailed active power, while respecting network limitations. The optimization of these parameters is formulated as a convex optimization problem, which can be solved sufficiently fast. The performance of the control is evaluated on an existing three-phase four-wire distribution grid and is compared with different local control methods.

Distribution Voltage Control Considering the Impact of PV Generation on Tap Changers and Autonomous Regulators

Abstract: The uptake of variable megawatts from photovoltaics (PV) challenges distribution system operation. The primary problem is significant voltage rise in the feeder that forces existing voltage control devices such as on-load tap-changers and line voltage regulators to operate continuously. The consequence is the deterioration of the operating life of the voltage control mechanism. Also, conventional non-coordinated reactive power control can result in the operation of the line regulator at its control limit (runaway condition). This paper proposes an optimal reactive power coordination strategy based on the load and irradiance forecast. The objective is to minimize the number of tap operations so as not to reduce the operating life of the tap control mechanism and avoid runaway. The proposed objective is achieved by coordinating various reactive power control options in the distribution network while satisfying constraints such as maximum power point tracking of PV and voltage limits of the feeder. The option of voltage support from PV plant is also considered. The problem is formulated as constrained optimization and solved through the interior point technique. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated in a realistic distribution network model.

Development of adaptive perturb and observe-fuzzy control maximum power point tracking for photovoltaic boost dc-dc converter

Abstract: This study presents an adaptive perturb and observe (P&O)-fuzzy control maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for photovoltaic (PV) boost dc-dc converter. P&O is known as a very simple MPPT algorithm and used widely. Fuzzy logic is also simple to be developed and provides fast response. The proposed technique combines both of their advantages. It should improve MPPT performance especially with existing of noise. For evaluation and comparison analysis, conventional P&O and fuzzy logic control algorithms have been developed too. All the algorithms were simulated in MATLAB-Simulink, respectively, together with PV module of Kyocera KD210GH-2PU connected to PV boost dc-dc converter. For hardware implementation, the proposed adaptive P&O-fuzzy control MPPT was programmed in TMS320F28335 digital signal processing board. The other two conventional MPPT methods were also programmed for comparison purpose. Performance assessment covers overshoot, time response, maximum power ratio, oscillation and stability as described further in this study. From the results and analysis, the adaptive P&O-fuzzy control MPPT shows the best performance with fast time response, less overshoot and more stable operation. It has high maximum power ratio as compared to the other two conventional MPPT algorithms especially with existing of noise in the system at low irradiance.

Overview of power inverter topologies and control structures for grid connected photovoltaic systems

Abstract: In grid-connected photovoltaic systems, a key consideration in the design and operation of inverters is how to achieve high efficiency with power output for different power configurations. The requirements for inverter connection include: maximum power point, high efficiency, control power injected into the grid, and low total harmonic distortion of the currents injected into the grid. Consequently, the performance of the inverters connected to the grid depends largely on the control strategy applied. This paper gives an overview of power inverter topologies and control structures for grid connected photovoltaic systems. In the first section, various configurations for grid connected photovoltaic systems and power inverter topologies are described. The following sections report, investigate and present control structures for single phase and three phase inverters. Some solutions to control the power injected into the grid and functional structures of each configuration are proposed.

New Modulation Techniques for a Leakage Current Reduction and a Neutral-Point Voltage Balance in Transformerless Photovoltaic Systems Using a Three-Level Inverter

Abstract: Transformerless topologies of many topologies are widely used in photovoltaic (PV) systems because these topologies have many advantages in terms of the weight, size, and efficiency. A three-level inverter has an outstanding performance and is advantageous in the switching device selection than a two-level inverter. In the transformerless PV systems using the three-level inverter, the PV systems should suffer from the leakage current and generate the neutral-point voltage unbalance. To solve two problems, this paper proposes modulation techniques to reduce the leakage current and balance the dc-link voltages. The cause of the leakage current in the three-level inverter is analyzed. The proposed technique LMZVM using the large, medium, and zero vectors reduces the common mode voltage that causes the leakage current than that of the conventional PWM. Moreover, the proposed technique LMSVM using the large, medium, and small vectors balances the dc-link voltages with reduced CMV as the same in LMZVM. The effectiveness of the proposed techniques is verified by comparing its results with those of the convectional PWM. The results are obtained through simulations and experiments.

Modeling, Impedance Design, and Efficiency Analysis of Quasi- $Z$ Source Module in Cascaded Multilevel Photovoltaic Power System

Abstract: The quasi- $Z$ source (qZS) cascaded multilevel inverter (CMI) (qZS-CMI) presents attractive advantages in application to photovoltaic (PV) power system. Each PV panel connects to an H-bridge qZS inverter (qZSI) to form a power generation module. The distributed maximum power point tracking and all modules' dc-link peak voltage balance can be achieved. However, it is the same with the conventional CMI that the second-harmonic ( $2\omega$ ) voltage and current ripples exist in each qZSI module. It is crucial for a qZS-CMI to design the reasonable qZS network parameters to limit the ripples within a desired range. This paper proposes an analytic model to accurately calculate the $2\omega$ voltage and current ripples of each qZSI module. A qZS impedance design method based on the built model is proposed to limit the $2\omega$ ripples of dc-link voltage and inductor current. Simulated and experimental results through using the designed 1.5-kW prototype validate the proposed analytic model and the design method. Furthermore, this paper analyzes all of the operating states for a qZSI module and calculates the power loss. The measured efficiency from the prototype verifies the theoretical calculation, and the qZS-CMI-based grid-tie PV power system is tested in practical.

Model Predictive Control of PV Sources in a Smart DC Distribution System: Maximum Power Point Tracking and Droop Control

Abstract: In a dc distribution system, where multiple power sources supply a common bus, current sharing is an important issue. When renewable energy resources are considered, such as photovoltaic (PV), dc/dc converters are needed to decouple the source voltage, which can vary due to operating conditions and maximum power point tracking (MPPT), from the dc bus voltage. Since different sources may have different power delivery capacities that may vary with time, coordination of the interface to the bus is of paramount importance to ensure reliable system operation. Further, since these sources are most likely distributed throughout the system, distributed controls are needed to ensure a robust and fault tolerant control system. This paper presents a model predictive control-based MPPT and model predictive control-based droop current regulator to interface PV in smart dc distribution systems. Back-to-back dc/dc converters control both the input current from the PV module and the droop characteristic of the output current injected into the distribution bus. The predictive controller speeds up both of the control loops, since it predicts and corrects error before the switching signal is applied to the respective converter.