Curve Computation MPPT Method Based on Simple Modeling of the Photovoltaic Modules

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) plays an essential role in the photovoltaic (PV) power generation. Different MPPT techniques are categorized into two main groups, namely direct methods and indirect methods. The direct methods, such as perturbation and observe method (P&O), do not require any prior knowledge about the PV module and find the maximum power point using the instantaneous values of the PV module. The indirect methods, on the other hand, such as fractional open-circuit voltage method, work based on information prepared in advance. This paper is aimed to introduce a novel curve computation MPPT (CCMPPT) method, which has advantages of both direct and indirect techniques. CCMPPT is a direct method that finds MPP rapidly and accurately. It also remains on MPP without fluctuation, unless the PV system undergoes an atmospheric change. Another feature of the proposed method, which leads to a low-cost and straightforward implementation, is that the method uses current and voltage values of the PV module and does not require any extra parameter. The simulation results validate the effectiveness of the CCMPPT method.