Simplified modeling of photovoltaic Maximum Power Point Tracking using MATLAB

In this paper, a simplified approach to modeling Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for photovoltaic (PV) applications, and a simple procedure for implementing an approximation to MPPT sometimes referenced as the “constant voltage” (CV) method, are presented. To develop these concepts, the photovoltaic source is first modeled. A simplified model of the means for adjusting the photovoltaic source operating point voltage and current is then presented for the case of a DC-DC converter, viewed as a variable load impedance for the PV source. Utilizing this simplified modeling approach, MPPT is then implemented to maximize the available PV output, using the CV procedure as the photovoltaic source irradiance is varied. Results are shown in the form of plots. In summary, it is shown that (1) a simplified modeling approach can yield insight into MPPT without focusing on complexities of system components, and (2) that the CV method can be a very effective alternative to more involved MPPT approaches such as perturb and observe, variable conductance, and other strategies.