Optimization Methods of MPPT Parameters for PV Systems: Review, Classification, and Comparison

To obtain efficient photovoltaic (PV) systems, optimum maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms are inevitable. The efficiency of MPPT algorithms depends on two MPPT parameters, i. e., perturbation amplitude and perturbation period. The optimization of MPPT algorithms affect both the tracking speed and steady-state oscillation. In this paper, optimization methods of MPPT parameters are reviewed and classified into fixed and variable methods. The fixed MPPT parameters are constant during MPPT performance, and a trade-off should be made between the tracking speed and steady-state oscillation. However, the variable MPPT parameters will be changed to improve both the tracking speed and the steady-state oscillations. Moreover, some of them are simulated, compared, and discussed to evaluate the real contributions of the optimization methods to the MPPT efficiency. Furthermore, significant features of the optimization methods, i.e., noise immunity, robustness, and computation effort, are investigated.