Gravitational search algorithm combined with P&O method for MPPT in PV systems

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm for photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems under non-uniform illumination. The proposed MPPT algorithm is composed of gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and traditional perturb and observe (P&O) method. In the initial stages of tracking, the power-voltage (P-V) curve is scanned through GSA and the best solution obtained is transferred to P&O algorithm in the later stage. The combined algorithm is shown to possess the principal advantages of the two methods resulting in improved tracking performance. Simulation and experimental studies on a prototype PV system show enhanced performance of the new method.