OPTIMIZING STEP-SIZE OF PERTURB & OBSERVE AND INCREMENTAL CONDUCTANCE MPPT TECHNIQUES USING PSO FOR GRID-TIED SYSTEM

Abstract

The growing demand for electricity and the depletion of fossil fuel resources have positioned solar photovoltaic (PV) systems as a promising alternative for future energy needs. Solar energy has gained significant importance due to its abundance and sustainability. However, solar panels exhibit nonlinear current–voltage (I–V) characteristics, with a distinct Maximum Power Point (MPP) that varies based on environmental conditions such as temperature and solar irradiation. To ensure maximum energy extraction, PV systems must continuously operate at their MPP despite changing environmental factors. This is achieved through Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) techniques, which enhance the overall efficiency of solar power systems. Various MPPT methods have been developed, including Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance (InC), Constant Current, Constant Voltage, Fuzzy Logic Control, and Neural Networkbased approaches. This paper focuses on a comparative analysis of two widely used MPPT techniques: Perturb and Observe (P&O) and Incremental Conductance (InC). The performance of these methods is evaluated through simulation of a PV array integrated with a boost converter using MATLAB/Simulink. The study highlights their effectiveness in tracking the maximum power point under varying operating conditions, contributing to improved energy efficiency in solar PV systems.