Fuzzy logic-based MPPT scheme using maximum power point current estimation for PV array

This paper introduces a fuzzy logic-based maximum power point tracking (FL-MPPT) scheme using maximum power point current (MPPC) estimation for a photovoltaic (PV) array. This scheme provides a new input parameter 'Er', which is derived using MPPC. The inclusion of 'Er' with the slope of the power versus voltage curve 'Es' helps to identify the operating point of the PV array and simplifies the MPPT. It also enables the precise movement of the operating point and reduces the number of fuzzy rules to just 13. These features improve the effectiveness of the scheme, especially under low and step-changing meteorological conditions (MCs) where conventional FL-MPPT schemes often struggle. The performance of the proposed scheme is examined by using the simulation and experimental results for dynamic MCs. Moreover, the proposed scheme is compared with the conventional FL-MPPT schemes, highlighting the advancements made by the proposed scheme.