MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) is a crucial feature in solar inverters used to optimize the power output from solar panels. It ensures that the solar panels operate at their maximum power point (MPP) despite changes in sunlight intensity or temperature.
Solar panels have a characteristic called the I-V curve, which represents the relationship between the panel's current (I) and voltage (V) output. The MPP is the point on this curve where the panel produces the maximum power output for a given set of conditions.
The MPPT function in a solar inverter continuously monitors the solar panel's voltage and current and adjusts the operating point to track the MPP. It achieves this by varying the inverter's input voltage and current to extract the maximum power from the panels. This is done by employing a DC-DC converter within the inverter.
The MPPT algorithm typically operates in the following steps:
Measurement: The inverter measures the solar panel's voltage and current at regular intervals.
Power Calculation: The inverter calculates the instantaneous power output of the solar panels by multiplying the measured voltage and current values.
Power Comparison: The calculated power is compared with the previously measured power to determine the direction in which the MPP is moving.
Perturbation: Based on the power comparison, the inverter adjusts the input voltage and current slightly to track the MPP. It may increase or decrease the operating point to find the maximum power.
Iteration: Steps 1-4 are repeated continuously to track the MPP in real-time, as the conditions affecting the solar panels change.
The MPPT algorithm dynamically adapts to variations in temperature, shading, and other factors affecting solar panel performance. By continuously adjusting the operating point to match the MPP, the MPPT ensures that the solar panels produce the maximum power output, resulting in increased overall energy harvest from the system.
Overall, the MPPT function in a solar inverter optimizes the power generation of solar panels by dynamically tracking and adjusting the operating point to the maximum power point, maximizing the efficiency and output of the solar power system.