Regulated photovoltaic panel with maximum power point tracking for remote area electrification

Abstract

Solar PV system has an important place in the context of rural electrification where extension of distribution grid is not economically viable due to low population and low levels of income. The proposed system enables off grid electrification by using photovoltaic panel to satisfy electrical needs of people in rural areas. This project consists of a boost converter connected to the output of a solar panel. The output of the low power-rating converter is connected to a battery. MPPT is implemented between the boost converter and the solar panel at all times then feed the converter. The report proposes a P&Q algorithm based analogue MPPT controller, which uses low complexity circuit components to realize memory elements and does not require any signal multiplier for power calculation. The algorithm performs iteration until maximum power point is reached on the panel. Modelling and controlling of the PV connected converters are presented in this report. The simulation and research validate the operation of the system under real life input and loading conditions. The simulation is tested with PV modules. The PV system converts sunlight directly into ac voltage and stepped up to 240 volts to supply local loads in the rural area. The system is cost effective, reliable and user friendly.