Modernisation of DC-DC converter topologies for solar energy harvesting applications: A review

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation has grown in popularity as a renewable energy source due to the numerous advantages it provides. These advantages include the ease with which it may be assigned, the absence of noise, the longer life, the absence of pollution, the shorter installation time, the high mobility and portability of its parts, and the ability of its output power to satisfy peak load needs. DC-DC converters are commonly used in solar energy harvesting systems because they enable more efficient usage of solar cells. One of the challenges is selecting an appropriate converter, which has an impact on the operation of the PV system. The modernization of various distinct DC-DC converter topologies for solar energy harvesting systems is discussed in this article. Boost, buck-boost, single-ended primary-inductance converter (SEPIC), Cuk, Zeta, and Z-source are some of these topologies. The topologies have been compared in order to provide extensive information on the hardware complexity, implementation cost, efficiency of the energy transfer elements, tracking efficiency, and converter efficiency. This paper will be useful as a handy reference in choosing the best converter topology for solar energy harvesting applications.