A tool for performance evaluation of MPPT algorithms for photovoltaic systems

The use of photovoltaic (PV) systems as electrical power generator is increasing rapidly and this growth is expected to be continuous. As well known in PV systems the tracking of the maximum power point (MPP) is fundamental. For this reason, many testing systems and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms have been developed. Testing systems are used for the development as well as for assessing the quality of PV products. The typical problem related to the evaluation of PV system performances and MPPT algorithm comparison is the guarantee of the repeatability of the testing conditions (e.g. temperature and radiation). In this paper, a testing system for PV applications has been developed and characterized. Flexibility, ease of use, low cost, capability to evaluate the characteristic curves of more than one PV panel simultaneously (same environmental conditions), the capability of algorithms simulation, and capability of tracking MPP on the base of different MPPT algorithms are some of the main characteristics. Experimental tests have been carried out to show the capability of the developed architecture. Different MPPT algorithms have been compared in the same environmental conditions both in the steady and dynamic state.