A comparative analysis of varying weather patterns effect on the performance of the MPPT techniques

In past few decades, the solar photovoltaic system (PV system) has attracted significant interest from researchers as a viable source of renewable energy globally. The power-generating capacity of solar PV systems is affected by atmospheric conditions, particularly on temperature and solar irradiation. Therefore, it becomes paramount to determine the Solar PVs performance under these varied operating scenarios. Maximum power point technique (MPPT) is significant in this context to track and locate the maximum power point (MPP) in real time on nonlinear I-V & P–V curves. It has the capability to shift the actual operating point to the newer MPP based on the prevailing operating conditions. In the last two decades numerous MPPT techniques have been proposed and analyzed under uniform or predefined patterns of temperature and irradiance. The operation of MPPT techniques is largely affected by variable weather conditions. In this paper, the comprehensive performance comparison of six MPPT techniques (four classical and two hybrid), which are generally used by practitioners across the world, has been presented. A model of a stand-alone solar PV system of 59.8W has been developed using MSX–60 PV Module Datasheet. The objective is to distinguish the comparative performance analysis of each technique based on the varying temperature and solar irradiance. The performance analysis has also been accomplished to provide more in-depth understanding of their performance. These studies are performed under different weather conditions, considering all possible scenarios viz. Rapid-Rise (RR), Rapid-Fall (RF), Gradual-Fall (GF) Rapid-Rise (RR) corresponding to the variation pattern of temperature and solar irradiance. These operating scenarios have been tested with real-time and actual weather conditions data. The outcome of this study reveals that no single technique is suitable for different operating scenarios, and therefore a particular technique needs to be identified based on the applications, detailed weather studies, and desired power requirements.