Power Plant Engineering

Model for MPPT System

Supervisor: Group Members:
Sir Zubair Afzal Mohammad Farhan Tahir 2021-UET-NFC-FD-MECH-23
Tanziha Zainab 2021-UET-NFC-FD-MECH-02
Abstract Layout
The MPPT (Solar Charge Controller) in
The increasing demand for renewable energy solutions has driven advancements in solar power the layout receives its input from the
technology, with MPPT systems playing a pivotal role in maximizing energy harvest. This solar panels through a DC breaker, which
project focuses on the design and implementation of an MPPT controller using the [Perturb & protects the system from overcurrent.
Observe/Incremental Conductance] algorithm to enhance the efficiency of PV systems. By The controller then regulates the DC
dynamically adjusting the electrical operating point of the solar panel, the system ensures power to charge the battery efficiently.
optimal power extraction under varying environmental conditions. Preliminary testing indicates The output of the MPPT supplies power
a significant improvement in efficiency compared to traditional fixed-voltage methods, to the battery (lower level) and can also
demonstrating the potential for broader application in residential and industrial solar feed power to an inverter/UPS (AC
installations. OUT) for converting DC to AC, which is
then distributed to the load or grid.
Background and Project Objectives Additionally, the system can draw AC
input (MAINS L N) for backup or grid-
The inefficiency of conventional solar power systems, which often operate below their
tied operations, ensuring seamless power
maximum power point due to fluctuating sunlight and temperature, underscores the need for
management between solar, battery, and
advanced MPPT solutions. Existing systems without MPPT technology suffer from substantial
grid sources.
energy losses, particularly in off-grid and hybrid applications. This project aims to bridge this
gap by developing a cost-effective and reliable MPPT controller. The primary objectives Results
include designing a robust DC-DC converter interface, implementing an efficient tracking
algorithm, and validating the system’s performance through experimental testing. By achieving Experimental results demonstrate that the implemented MPPT system achieves an average
these goals, the project contributes to sustainable energy solutions and supports Pakistan’s efficiency of 93%%, a notable improvement over non-MPPT systems, which typically operate at
71% efficiency under similar conditions. The system effectively tracks the maximum power point
growing reliance on solar power.
even during rapid changes in solar irradiance, as evidenced by the stable power output recorded
Development Methodology during testing. Comparative analysis with theoretical models confirms the accuracy of the
algorithm, while real-world testing highlights its practicality for deployment in diverse
The methodology for this project encompasses hardware design, software development, and environments. Graphical representations of power-voltage curves and efficiency metrics provide
experimental validation. The hardware component involves selecting a high-efficiency buck- clear visual evidence of the system’s superior performance.
boost converter, current-voltage sensors, and a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino or STM32) to
serve as the control unit. On the software side, the MPPT algorithm continuously monitors the Conclusions and Discussion
PV panel’s output and adjusts the duty cycle of the converter to maintain operation at the In conclusion, this project successfully demonstrates the feasibility and advantages of an advanced
maximum power point. A structured testing protocol was established to evaluate the system MPPT system for solar PV applications. The developed controller not only enhances energy
under different irradiance and load conditions, with data collected on key parameters such as extraction but also offers a scalable and cost-effective solution for both small-scale and industrial
voltage, current, and overall efficiency. Simulations using MATLAB/Simulink were conducted installations. Challenges such as transient response delays and component selection trade-offs
prior to physical prototyping to optimize the design and predict performance outcomes. were identified and documented for future refinement. Recommendations for follow-up work
include integrating machine learning for adaptive algorithm tuning and exploring wireless
monitoring capabilities for remote system management. These advancements could further
solidify the role of MPPT technology in the global transition to renewable energy.