Improvements On The P&O Method For PV Panels

In this paper we focus on the perturb and observe (P&O) method and on ways of improving it. The basic characteristics of the conventional P&O method are showcased using a constant step algorithm. This is used to emphasize the characteristics of a novel modified fuzzy logic based variable step algorithm. Both are online low-complexity algorithms. Both these algorithms were simulated and tested on an isolated photovoltaic energy conversion system in MATLAB/Simulink. The results provide a range for P&O performance and starting place for P&O improvement. Techniques for improving MPPT control as well as hybridization techniques are presented in detail in this paper.