MPPT algorithm and photovoltaic array emulator using DC/DC converters

This paper presents a new maximum power point tracking (MPPT) strategy for DC/DC converters used in Photovoltaic field. The main advantages of this strategy are the minimization of the needed electrical sensors and its simple implementation. The considered method uses only the PV current sensor. The performances of this proposed MPPT algorithm are verified using a photovoltaic emulator. This emulator is designed based on power converters and is capable to reproduce, in the laboratory, the electrical characteristics of a real PV module without depending on external weather conditions. The usefulness of proposed system is demonstrated through simulation carried out under PSIM environment.