Investigation on maximum power point tracking techniques for use in partially shaded conditions

Partially shaded conditions (PSCs) often occur in large photovoltaic generation systems (PGSs). Since PSCs will result in losses in output power, hot spot effects, and incurring system safety and reliability problems, developing a new maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technique is crucial. In this study, three MPPT methods suitable for PSC are investigated. These methods are firstly implemented and validated using MATLAB. Then, these methods are compared in terms of several factors including tracking speed, tracking accuracy and successful rate of tracking global maximum power point (GMPP). Finally, the pros and cons of these compared methods will be discussed and summarized.