Performance analysis of Super-Lift Luo, Ultra-Lift Luo, Boost, Buck-Boost, Cuk, Zeta and SEPIC DC-DC converters for extracting maximum power

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has advanced remarkably, playing a pivotal role in accelerating renewable energy adoption worldwide. These developments contribute significantly to efforts aimed at mitigating climate change by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. However, PV systems face significant challenges under Partial Shading Conditions (PSCs), caused by factors such as cloud cover, physical obstructions, vegetation, and dust accumulation. These scenarios lead to energy losses due to mismatches, the development of hotspots, and the emergence of multiple peaks on the power-voltage (P-V) curve, complicating the identification of the Global Maximum Power Point (GMPP) and diminishing the overall system efficiency. This research investigates the Total-Cross-Tied (TCT) PV array configuration under PSCs, incorporating non-isolated DC-DC converters alongside the Perturb and Observe (P&O) Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm to improve energy extraction. MATLAB/Simulink models are used to simulate shading scenarios Uniform, diagonal, random, centre, and corner allowing the analysis of crucial performance metrics, including power output, voltage, current, duty cycle, fill factor, and mismatch losses. The study compares conventional converters Boost, Buck–Boost, SEPIC, Cuk and Zeta equipped with Ultra-Lift Luo and Super-Lift Luo converters, both designed to achieve high voltage gain efficiently. Findings indicate that high-gain converters significantly enhance performance under PSCs, offering quicker GMPP tracking, higher voltage gains, and reduced power fluctuations. Among these, the Super-Lift Luo Converter demonstrates superior efficiency and lower ripple, while the Ultra-Lift Luo Converter maximises power output, excelling particularly in uniform and diagonal shading conditions. In contrast, conventional converters deliver reliable but comparatively lower voltage gains. This research emphasises the importance of selecting appropriate converter topologies and array configurations to mitigate the impacts of PSCs effectively. These findings contribute to the development of robust and efficient PV systems capable of delivering consistent performance under diverse environmental conditions, promoting renewable energy adoption globally.