Efficient and cost-effective maximum power point tracking technique for solar photovoltaic systems with Li-ion battery charging

This paper presents an effective approach to achieve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in photovoltaic (PV) systems for battery charging using a single-sensor incremental conductance (InC) method. The objective is to optimize the MPPT process while minimizing the number of sensors required. The suggested technique leverages the relationship between the PV module's output voltage and the duty cycle to automatically adjust and reach the MPP, resulting in optimal power generation. By eliminating the PV current sensor from the control circuit, the developed method reduces both the cost and size of the MPPT circuit. Compared to the conventional InC method, the developed approach demonstrates improved response speed and accuracy in steady-state operation, along with the ability to damp oscillations near the MPP. Extensive simulations using MATLAB/ Simulink validate the performance of the developed technique across various environmental conditions. The results highlight the recommended method's realistic and effective MPP tracking capabilities, achieving higher efficiency (99.12 %) compared to the classical method (97.8 %) under high irradiance levels.