Burst-Mode Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithm for Low-Power Photovoltaic Energy Harvesting Applications

For low-power photovoltaic (PV) energy harvesting applications, high tracking efficiency of the maximum power point (MPP) and low losses in the power converter are crucial to maximize output power. A burst-mode maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is proposed that actively tracks the PV MPP while only switching a fraction of the time. High switching frequency of the dc-dc converter controlling the PV allows for smaller passive components, while burst mode operation reduces overall switching losses. Simulation results of a PV panel and a dc-dc converter implementing the MPPT algorithm indicate 97% tracking efficiency. The simulation of a system with 3 PV panels and 3 converters with realistic irradiance profiles results in an average output power of 3.47 W, with an overall system efficiency of 89%. The viability of burst-mode control with a PV panel as the input source is corroborated through experimentation.