A Novel Resistance Switching Algorithm for Optimal Operation in Solar PV Systems

The power generated from the solar PV panels must be consumed/stored as and when available. So, an appropriate system and control algorithm for matching the load based on the environmental conditions must be implemented to effectively harvest energy obtained from the solar PV system. In this regard, this paper presents a novel scheme for achieving Maximum Power Point (MPP) operation in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems using a Resistance Switching Algorithm (RSA). This approach simplifies the system design by employing a series of resistors switched according to consumer load requirements and environmental conditions. For this purpose, Resistance Switching Unit (RSU) has been designed and implemented along with RSA. Thus, the RSA provides a simple and effective way to track the MPP by adjusting the resistances in RSU. Solar irradiance is a vital factor in implementing the proposed RSA; the irradiance has been estimated using the PV panel voltage and current measurements and the parameters of the PV panel at standard test conditions. The mathematical modeling of the PV system and comprehensive design are presented. The proposed system has been implemented and tested using MATLAB/Simulink to demonstrate its effectiveness in maintaining optimal power output. The results indicate that the proposed resistance switching strategy successfully tracks the MPP, providing a cost-effective and efficient operation of solar PV systems.