A maximum-power-point tracking algorithm applied to a photovoltaic water-pumping system

Abstract

This paper proposes a new maximum-power-point tracking algorithm (MPPT) applied to an induction-motor-pump fed by a photovoltaic generator. The induction motor is controlled by the field-oriented control method using two PI current regulators and a PI speed regulator. The maximum-power-point tracker generates the reference speed from the fitted function of reference speed versus solar illumination. The computer simulations and results are presented to prove that the proposed algorithm can be used as a robust maximum-power-point tracker for the photovoltaic water-pumping system.