PV Systems Operating in Dynamic Climatic Circumstances Using a PSO-based SMC and PID Controller

Environmental conditions impacting solar energy input to photovoltaic (PV) systems can vary unpredictably, complicating Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). The nonlinear performance curve of PV panels further complicates the control process. To address these challenges, various MPPT techniques have been developed, improving the efficiency of solar power conversion systems. However, rapid changes in load and/or weather conditions necessitate compromises between the tracking algorithm's speed and reliability. This paper introduces a sliding mode controller to enhance the Particle Swarm Optimization-based MPPT algorithm's transient tracking performance, particularly in terms of settling and rise time. This controller eliminates the need for a PWM stage, generating the necessary pulses directly. Notably, under partial shading conditions, the proposed MPPT controller excels by efficiently identifying the global maximum power point with superior transient behavior. Comparative analysis with conventional methods demonstrates the proposed approach's enhanced performance.