A General Constant Power Generation Algorithm for Photovoltaic Systems

Abstract

Photovoltaic power plants (PVPPs) typically operate by tracking the maximum power point (MPP) in order to maximize the conversion efficiency. However, with the continuous increase of installed grid-connected PVPPs, power system operators have been experiencing new challenges, such as overloading, overvoltages, and operation during grid-voltage disturbances. Consequently, constant power generation (CPG) is imposed by grid codes. An algorithm for the calculation of the photovoltaic panel voltage reference, which generates a constant power from the PVPP, is introduced in this paper. The key novelty of the proposed algorithm is its applicability for both single- and two-stage PVPPs and flexibility to move the operation point to the right or left side of the MPP. Furthermore, the execution frequency of the algorithm and voltage increments between consecutive operating points are modified based on a hysteresis band controller in order to obtain fast dynamic response under transients and low-power oscillation during steady-state operation. The performance of the proposed algorithm for both single- and two-stage PVPPs is examined on a 50-kVA simulation setup of these topologies. Moreover, experimental results on a 1-kVA PV system validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm under various operating conditions, demonstrating functionalities of the proposed CPG algorithm.