LAUSR

The continuously increasing demand of renewable energy has advanced the development of photovoltaic (PV) systems and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms. The classic hill-climbing plus proportional-integral technique is being challenged under rapidly changing environmental conditions. This paper proposes an MPPT algorithm with fast transient responses, while maximizing the efficiency of PV applications. This novel approach employs a dp/dv tracking method in conjunction with a second-order switching surface controller in a boost-type converter. Successful tracking of the maximum power point (MPP) is achieved in switching-cycle level with a precise voltage ripple control. A 280-W converter embedded with the proposed controller is built and tested with multiple PV panels. Experiment results show that the proposed scheme can reach a new MPP in 300 μs and show a good agreement with the derived theory.