Optimizing sampling rate of P&O MPPT technique

This paper shows that the efficiency of the Perturb and Observe (P&O) Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) control technique can be improved by optimizing its sampling interval T-a according to the converter's dynamics. During sunny days, when the maximum power point of the photovoltaic (PV) array moves very slowly, the sampling interval T-a must be set as short as possible without causing instability. If the algorithm samples the array voltage and current too quickly, it is subjected to possible mistakes caused by the transient behavior of the PV array+converter system, thus missing temporarily the MPP. As a consequence, the algorithm can be confused, the energy efficiency decays, and the operating point can become unstable, entering disordered behaviors. The solution proposed in this paper lies in choosing T-a according to the converter's dynamics. The choice of the value of T-a according to the proposed approach ensures a three-level steady-state duty-cycle swing around the MPP, whatever the duty-cycle step-size and the irradiance level are. As an example, a boost MPPT battery charger has been studied.