A critical evaluation of maximum power point tracking techniques for PV systems working under partial shading conditions

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) energy is a promising source of renewable energy which is sturdy and environmentally friendly. PV generation systems, once installed, produce electricity from solar irradiance without emitting greenhouse gases. To maximize the output power of PV systems, the maximum power point tracking system has been employed (MPPT). The MPPT constitutes a fundamental part of PV systems. In recent years, a large number of MPPT techniques have been proposed. This paper is set up to critically review some of the proposed maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques to handle the emergence of multiple MPPs in PV panel characteristics due to the partial shading conditions (PSCs). To define the working principle and the pros and cons of the different proposed techniques clearly and sequentially, they are divided into three groups as follows: conventional MPPT techniques, improved MPPT techniques and artificial intelligence-based MPPT techniques to deal with PSCs. The paper also critically summarizes the findings in terms of their performance in capturing the global maximum power point (GMPP) for PV systems operating under PSCs.