Enhancing Performance of Photovoltaic Pump Systems in Remote Areas Using a Sliding Mode Technique for Maximum Power Point Tracking

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) systems represent an extremely intriguing alternative in order to provide dry and semi-arid regions in remote locations with water. In this case, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) unit that aims to regulate the PV panel connected converter duty cycle is necessary to ensure that it operates as efficiently as possible under various operating situations. This study introduces a sliding mode technique-based MPPT control unit with the goal of enhancing photovoltaic pump (PVP) system performance. It discusses this for a number of scenarios, including the presence or absence of batteries, operation under various radiation conditions, and operation in consideration of constant speed and variable load torque. The outcomes of the MATLAB simulation demonstrated that the proposed methodology is preferable compared to the incremental conductance method for the various scenarios, and it achieves better efficiency and lower voltage ripples.