Reliability and Lifetime Analysis of a Standalone PV System Employing Fuzzy Logic and P&O MPPT Methods Under Faulty Conditions

In light of the increasing need for solar power, fueled by the depletion of fossil resources and their ecological consequence, various studies have been conducted to improve the tracking of the maximum power point. This optimization aims to enhance the utilization of PV cell power, especially in standalone applications, given the vital role of electricity in agriculture and local consumption. Hence, considerations regarding reliability and lifetime management hold substantial importance. This study delves into the examination and analysis of MPPT controllers, including the conventional P&O and Fuzzy Logic, for their application in PV systems. To achieve this objective, a 100 kW off-grid PV system is employed. Following the implementation of the two mentioned MPPT techniques, their critical failure modes undergo investigation through lifetime analysis. In order to assess the reliability status of these MPPTs under faulty conditions, appropriate reliability criteria are selected. The outcomes of the reliability assessments lead to the derivation of Markov chains, and the study on reliability provides the Mean Time to Failure as a metric for lifetime estimation. Additionally, their performance in the face of rapid load changes is employed to analyze the stability of each method. Ultimately, the most reliable MPPT method is recommended for standalone PV system, serving as a guide for engineering applications.