A Fuzzy Logic Control for Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithm Validated in a Commercial PV System

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) panels are devices capable of transforming solar energy into electricity without emissions. They are still a trending technology in the market not only because of the renewable features but also due to the avoidance of movable parts, which makes them an option with low maintenance. If the output voltage is insufficient or needs to be regulated, a boost converter is commonly connected to a PV panel. In this article, a commercial PV with a boost converter is controlled through a dSPACE platform for a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) task. Due to previous related experience, a fuzzy logic technique is designed and tested in real-time. The results are compared with an incremental conductance (IncCond) algorithm because it is a feasible and reliable tool for MPPT purposes. The outcomes show enhancement (in comparison with IncCond) in the steady-state oscillation, response time and overshoot values, which are 73.2%, 81.5% and 52.9%, respectively.