Dragonfly Optimization-based MPPT Algorithm for Standalone PV System under Partial Shading

Abstract

Currently, Photovoltaic (PV) technology has higher demand in the market and gaining momentum day by day. However, partial shading is the most significant concern as it reduces the efficiency of standalone PV systems. Partially shading is typically induced by non-uniform sunlight and uncertain temperature fluctuations. The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms play a major role in determining the overall system's efficiency. The PV system creates several peaks in its power voltage (P-V) characteristic curve under partial shadowing. To make the PV system run under partial shading at global maximum power point (GMPP), the dragonfly optimization (DFO) algorithm is put forward in this research article. The proposed DFO technique and other commonly used MPPT techniques, such as Particle swarm optimization (PSO), Perturb and Observe (P&O), is investigated through theoretical analysis and simulation using Matlab/Simulink to authenticate the overall performance of the DFO approach under partial shading. Furthermore, the comparison demonstrates that the suggested DFO strategy provides very high reliability, efficiency, robustness, rapid power tracking and lower response time to trace the GMPP than PSO and P&O techniques. Hence, the DFO technique's overall performance under partial shading is appropriate and satisfying.