A Comparative Study of Different Solar Power Tracking Control Techniques

摘要

Solar tracking conventionally uses mathematical calculations to know the exact position of the sun. In an attempt to further increase yield efficiency, this paper looks at control techniques to achieve maximum power. Converting irradiation into electricity is the main function of a photovoltaic panel. Then, why not orientate the solar panel in a position where it can yield maximum power? In other words, this research tests the feasibility of building a 'power tracker' instead of a solar tracker. The two proposed algorithms are namely, Extremum Seeking Control and Perturb and Observe. Simulations were done on MATLAB/Simulink and a prototype was built for a comparative study of different tracking control techniques.