Improved Variable Step Size P&O MPPT for Wind Energy Conversion Systems

A Wind Energy Conversion System's (WECS) power extraction should always be optimized, as it ensures efficient utilization of wind resources and facilitates the transition towards a sustainable and renewable energy future. The Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm using variable step size (VSS) is a novel method presented in this study that aims to maximize power extraction in WECS driven by Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generators (PMSGs). The utilization of a PMSG offers several advantages, including increased efficiency, reduced gear losses, and improved power conversion, resulting in overall enhanced performance. The proposed algorithm addresses the drawbacks of conventional P&O algorithms (CPO), aiming to improve power extraction efficiency and enhance system performance. The proposed Modified P&O (MPO) algorithm reduces oscillations and improves the accuracy of speed tracking by utilizing five regions of operation and variable-speed step sizes. This adaptive approach allows for efficient power extraction under varying wind conditions. Extensive simulations are executed using MATLAB software to compare the proposed VSS P&O algorithm against traditional fixed step size approaches. The results demonstrate its superior performance in tracking the MPP and extracting maximum power from the PMSG-based WECS by reducing oscillations and improving tracking accuracy.