Design, Analysis and Implementation of Fixed and Variable Step Incremental MPPT Techniques of PV Power Conversion System

The Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) system is essential for maximizing the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems, which is necessary for efficient solar energy usage. This paper examines two prominent MPPT techniques: Incremental Conductance (IC) with fixed step size and variable step size. The IC method, known for its accuracy in handling rapid environmental changes, adjusts the PV system's operating point to ensure optimal performance. The fixed step size approach is simple to implement and computationally efficient but may struggle with stability and efficiency under varying conditions. In contrast, the variable step size method dynamically adjusts the step size based on operating conditions, offering improved performance and stability at the cost of increased complexity. A comparative analysis based on convergence time, tracking accuracy, stability, and implementation complexity highlights the strengths and limitations of each method. The findings guide engineers and researchers in designing MPPT systems that maximize the efficiency and reliability of photovoltaic energy conversion.