A Dual-Discrete Model Predictive Control-based MPPT for PV systems

This paper presents a method that overcomes the problem of the confusion during fast irradiance change in the classical MPPTs as well as in model predictive control (MPC)-based MPPTs available in the literature. The previously
introduced MPC-based MPPTs take into account the model of the converter only, which make them prone to the drift during fast environmental conditions. Therefore, the model of the PV array is also considered in the proposed algorithm, which allows it to be prompt during rapid environmental condition changes. It takes into account multiple previous samples of power, and based
on that is able to take the correct tracking decision when the predicted and measured power differ (in case of drift issue). After the tracking decision is taken, it will be sent to a second part of the algorithm as a reference. The second part is used for following the reference provided by the first part, where the pulses are sent directly to the converter, without a modulator or a linear controller. The proposed technique is validated experimentally by using a buck converter, fed by a PV simulator. The tracking efficiency is evaluated according to EN50530 standard in static and dynamic conditions. The experimental
results show that the proposed MPC-MPPT is a quick and accurate tracker under very fast changing irradiance, while maintaining high tracking efficiency even under very low irradiance.