MPPT with INFO Algorithm Tuned Nonlinear PI Control for a PV Array

In real-time PV applications, it is a problem that the maximum benefit cannot be obtained from PV systems at all times due to the nonlinearity of the PV structure and the dynamic nature of meteorological conditions. Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is used to overcome this problem and to benefit from PV systems in the most efficient way. In this study, an MPPT method based on the perturb&observe (P&O) technique with nonlinear proportional-integral (NPI) control is proposed. In this method, the parameters of the NPI are adjusted with weighted mean of vectors (INFO) algorithm. Integral of time-weighted absolute error (ITAE) performance index is used for parameter setting, and control parameter behavior is added to the ITAE index to prevent control parameter noises. To validate the proposed method, it is compared with the classical PI control whose parameters are adjusted with the INFO algorithm. The proposed method exhibits 59% faster settling and 63% less overshoot in response to a pulse radiation change of 500W/m
²
. In addition, performance of the proposed method is 42% better according to the ITAE index. Consequently, it is confirmed that the proposed method is promising for future studies due to its simplicity, fast response, and these satisfactory results.