Abstract:
Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy is becoming an increasingly important part of the world’s renewable energy. In order for effective energy extraction from a solar PV system, this research investigates solar PV energy generation and conversion from devices to grid integration. First of all, this dissertation focuses on I–V and P–V characteristics of PV modules and arrays, especially under uneven shading conditions, and considers both the physics and electrical characteristics of a solar PV system in the model development. The dissertation examines how different by pass diode arrangements could affect maximum power extraction characteristics of a solar PV module or array. Secondly, in order to develop competent technology for efficient energy extraction from a solar PV system, this research investigates typical maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control strategies used in solar PV industry, and proposes an adaptive and close-loop MPPT strategy for fast and reliable extraction of solar PV power. The research focuses especially on how conventional and proposed MPPT methods behave under highly variable weather conditions in a digital control environment. A computational experiment system is developed by using Mat Lab Simulation Power Systems and Opal-RT (real-time) simulation technology for fast and accurate investigations of the maximum power extraction under high frequency switching conditions of power converters. A hardware experiment system is built to compare and validate the conventional and the proposed MPPT methods in a more practical condition. Advantages, disadvantages and properties of different MPPT techniques are studied, evaluated, and compared
