J. Prasanth Ram

A Novel Flower Pollination Based Global Maximum Power Point Method for Solar Maximum Power Point Tracking

To maximize solar photovoltaic (PV) output under dynamic weather conditions, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers are incorporated in solar PV systems. However, the occurrence of multiple peaks due to partial shading adds complexity to the tracking process. Even though conventional and soft computing techniques are widely used to solve MPPT problem, conventional methods exhibit limited performance due to fixed step size, whereas soft computing techniques are restricted by insufficient randomness after reaching the vicinity of maximum power. Hence, in this paper, a new flower pollination algorithm (FPA) with the ability to reach global peak is proposed. Optimization process in FPA method performs global and local search in single stage and it is a key tool for its success in MPPT application. The ruggedness of the algorithm is tested with zero, weak, and strong shade pattern. Further, comprehensive performance estimation via simulation and hardware are carried out for FPA method and are quantified with conventional perturb and observe and particle swarm optimization (PSO) methods. Results obtained with FPA method show superiority in energy saving and proved to be economical.

Particle Swarm Optimization Based Solar PV Array Reconfiguration of the Maximum Power Extraction Under Partial Shading Conditions

For large photovoltaic power generation plants, number of panels are interconnected in series and parallel to form a photovoltaic (PV) array. In this configuration, partial shade will result in decrease in power output and introduce multiple peaks in the P–V curve. As a consequence, the modules in the array will deliver different row currents. Therefore, to maximize the power extraction from PV array, the panels need to be reconfigured for row current difference minimization. Row current minimization via Su Do Ku game theory do physical relocation of panels may cause laborious work and lengthy interconnecting ties. Hence, in this paper, an alternative to physical relocation based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) connected modules is proposed. In this method, the physical location of the modules remains unchanged, while its electrical connections are altered. Extensive simulations with different shade patterns are carried out and thorough analysis with the help of I–V, P–V curves is carried out to support the usefulness of the proposed method. The effectiveness of proposed PSO technique is evaluated via performance analysis based on energy saving and income generation. Further, a comprehensive comparison of various electrical array reconfiguration based is performed at the last to examine the suitability of proposed array reconfiguration method.

Solar PV parameter extraction using FPA

Over a decade, the research interest in solar energy is considerably increased, since it is one of the most promising alternate for decaying fossil fuel. Among the research thrusts, the accurate modeling of solar I-V characteristics is given prior importance. In this article, the authors have proposed a new FPA based solar PV parameter extraction. To avoid computational burden and complexity, single diode modeling is preferred. Solar PV parameters are computed using FPA method. The computed root mean square error and relative error is compared with existing simulated annealing, Pattern search, Genetic algorithm and particle swam optimization techniques.

FPA based approach for solar maximum power point tracking

Due to the regular availability, pollution free and eco-friendly nature, power generation from solar energy has gained considerable attention. Although, power generation from solar is attractive; the environmental factors such as irradiation and temperature makes it challenging. In particular, it is a demanding task to researchers to extract maximum power different shading conditions. However, to extract maximum power various MPPT techniques have been proposed in conventional method and Evolutionary algorithm implemented methods. In the paper, by considering the limitations of aforementioned methods, a new nature inspired flower pollination algorithm (FPA) is proposed. Compared to the inability in conventional methods under partial shaded conditions, the FPA yields very good performance. Further, different shading patterns are tested and the results are compared with P&O and HC (hill climbing) methods. The results of FPA acknowledges its potential in attaining good convergence, high efficiency and less complexity.

An Internet of Things to Maximum Power Point Tracking Approach of Solar PV Array

Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the emerging trends and has great potential to bring advances in electrical engineering and renewable energy. It is estimated that by 2020, IoT will be a

Dynamic Performance Enhancement of Three-Phase PV Grid-Connected Systems Using Constant PowerGeneration (CPG)

20 trillion industry. Hence, this paper proposes the method of incorporating IoT in solar energy and photovoltaic research at the laboratory level. The proposed method includes IoT’s divine application in (a) MPPT tracking; (b) partial shading; (c) security switch for turning ON Arduino’s serial monitor; and finally, (d) building up the direct communication between professor (sitting in the cabin) and the research scholar performing experiment (in the laboratory which is at some particular distance from the professor’s cabin). The whole setup is based on the newly developed Indian microcontroller-BOLT (An Internet of Things platform) launched on 21 February 2016.

A comprehensive review on solar PV maximum power point tracking techniques

Surmount demand requirement in electrical energy has given a provision of integrating renewable energy to the three-phase grid-connected system. In particular, the penetration of distributed generation system has contributed more in electrical power generation. But the system connected produces adverse effects in grid due to the unpredictable atmospheric conditions. To handle such condition, in this research article, PV system is considered under study and a new two-stage CPG-P&O MPPT method is used for interfacing PV with grid systems. In addition, a wide range of feed-in power to grid capacity at inverter level is briefly addressed. Further, the algorithm is designed to reduce the increased thermal stresses in switch and to get rid of the grid overshoot and power loss. The desired objective was acknowledged by the simulation results by ensuring delivery of optimal performance.