Effect of fill factor on the MPPT performance of a grid-connected inverter under Malaysian conditions

The performance of a grid-connected PV inverter maximum power point (MPP) tracker would usually depend on the characteristics of the PV arrays. This in turn is typically indicated by the parameter known as fill factor (FF). The FF varies, depending on the array type. The typical maximum power point tracking (MPPT) dynamic tests conducted usually involve programming of the solar array simulator in such a way as to reflect different change in weather conditions. Different types of PV arrays may respond differently to the change in weather, hence affecting the capability of the inverter MPP tracker to respond accordingly. This work uses a different approach in testing the performance of a grid-connected inverter MPP tracker by imposing a solar array simulator output that reflects the Malaysian conditions in terms of irradiance and temperature throughout a typical day. Different fill factors representing different types of PV arrays will be set in order to investigate the MPPT performance of a sample inverter under Malaysian conditions. The results of the test conducted will be presented and analysed.