Evaluating the Effectiveness of Maximum Power Point Tracking Methods in Photovoltaic Power Systems using Array Performance Models

Maximum Power Point Tracking methods control the operating voltage of photovoltaic arrays in order to maximize their power output. This paper presents a method to evaluate the effectiveness of such methods continuously in operating photovoltaic power systems, and hence, under real-world conditions. When operating, the maximum power cannot be measured, and therefore must be estimated. The proposed method relies on additional PV modules to accurately measure the effective radiation, and back-of-module sensors for temperature measurements. These measurements are inputs to a model that calculates the maximum power point, which is then compared to the actual operating point of the PV array and inverter.