MPPT Design Using PSO Technique for Photovoltaic System Control Comparing to Fuzzy Logic and P&O Controllers

Abstract

The Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) is the optimum operating point of a photovoltaic module. It plays a very important role to obtain the maximum power of a solar panel as it allows an optimal use of a photovoltaic system, regardless of irradiation and temperature variations. In this research, we present a novel technique to improve the control’s performances optimization of the system consisting of a photovoltaic panel, a buck converter and a load. Simulations of different parts of the system are developed under Matlab/Simulink, thus allowing a comparison between the performances of the three studied controllers: “Fuzzy TS”, “P&O” and “PSO”. The three algorithms of MPPT associated with these techniques are tested in different meteorological conditions. The obtained results, in different operating conditions, reveal a clear improvement of controlling performances of MPPT of a photovoltaic system when the PSO tracking technique is used.