Comparing effectiveness of hybrid mppt algorithms under partial shading conditions

For photovoltaic (PV) systems, a key area which can affect the amount of energy harvested is the effectiveness of the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm, which dynamically locates the operating point for maximum power output. Currently, there are many MPPT algorithms proposed and in use, however, they are not without problems. For example, algorithms such as the Fractional Open Circuit method are simple and effective, but their accuracy is poor. Other algorithms such as the Perturb & Observe (P&O) approach, although more accurate, will cause oscillations around the maximum power point. It is perceived that the use of two MPPT algorithms in tandem will help to overcome the drawbacks of individual MPPT algorithms used in isolation. This paper proposes two new versions of Hybrid MPPT algorithm; one being a combination of the Fractional Open Circuit Voltage and P&O methods, and the other a combination of the Power Increment and P&O techniques. Experimental results are reported to evaluate and compare the performance of the algorithms.