Maximum power point tracking using GA-optimized artificial neural network for Solar PV system

Solar energy is a green energy which is not only perennial but also accessible to every strata of the world. An easy way to convert solar energy into electric energy is to use Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) system. Solar panel is a power source having nonlinear internal resistance. As the intensity of light falling on the panel varies, its voltage as well as its internal resistance varies. To extract maximum power from the panel, the load resistance should be equal to the internal resistance of the panel. For this purpose maximum power point trackers (MPPT) are used. This paper proposes a new MPPT controller. The proposed MPPT controller is based on genetic algorithm (GA) optimized artificial neural network (ANN). For the simulation purpose an improved model of SPV is used. The MPPT is simulated and studied using MATLAB software.