Simple and low cost incremental conductance maximum power point tracking using buck-boost converter

Cost of the photovoltaic (PV) systems and their peripherals has been always an issue when considering them for various applications. Using an inexpensive maximum power point tracking (MPPT) system is a simple but efficient solution to reduce the cost of the PV systems and increase the public acceptance. This paper presents the simulation and hardware implementation of incremental conductance algorithm using buck-boost converter and PIC18F4520 controller. Design and simulation of the proposed system are presented using MATLAB and SIMULINK tools. The proposed system is also tested on KC85T PV module for constant and changing weather conditions. Experimental results indicated the capability and functionality of the proposed system on tracking maximum power point with the voltage ripple ratio=0.006, which is near to the ideal mathematically calculated assessment. The proposed MPPT system helps to reduce the complexity and cost of the PV systems and also ensures the largest operating region of the PV module