Fuzzy logic controller based maximum power point tracking technique for different configurations of partially shaded photovoltaic system

A solar photovoltaic (PV) system has been emerging out as one of the greatest potential renewable energy sources and is contributing significantly in the energy sector. The PV system depends upon the solar irradiation and any changes in the incoming solar irradiation will affect badly on the output of the PV system. The solar irradiation is location specific and also the atmospheric conditions in the surroundings of the PV system contribute significantly to its performance. This paper presents the cumulative assessment of the four MPPT techniques during the partial shading conditions (PSCs) for different configurations of the PV array. The partial shading configurations like series-parallel, bridge link, total cross tied and honeycomb structure for an 84 PV array has been simulated to compare the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques. The MPPT techniques like perturb and observe, incremental conductance, extremum seeking control and a fuzzy logic controller were implemented for different shading patterns. The results related to the maximum power tracked, tracking efficiency of each of the MPPT techniques were presented in order to assess the best MPPT technique and the best configuration of the PV array for yielding the maximum power during the PSCs