Global MPPT scheme for photovoltaic string inverters based on restricted voltage window search algorithm

Abstract

String inverter photovoltaic (PV) systems with bypass diodes require improved global maximum power point tracking (GMPPT) algorithms to effectively reach the absolute maximum power operating point. Several GMPPT algorithms have been proposed to deal with this problem, but most of them require scanning wide voltage ranges of the PV array from nearly zero voltage to open-circuit voltage that increases the scanning time and, in turn, causes energy loss. This paper presents a novel GMPPT method which significantly restricts the voltage window search range and tracks the global power peak rapidly in all shading conditions. Simulation tests and experimental comparisons with another GMPPT algorithm are presented to highlight the features of the presented approach.