SEPIC FOR MAXIMUM POWER EXTRACTION FROM SOLAR PANEL

Abstract

The impedance matching circuit is used in between load and PV module to ensure that we are operating at MPP. Impedance matching circuits are nothing but DC-DC converters. With the change in climatic conditions, the duty cycle of converter to operate at MPP changes. Thus the converter must be designed to be able to match MPP under fluctuating atmospheric conditions and load.This paper presents the design of a SEPIC (Single Ended Primary Inductor Converter) for maximum power extraction from Solar panels. The design of SEPIC converter for PV applications is explained in detail. The calculations of ratings and values of components are made considering maximum duty cycle equal to one and the minimum duty cycle equal to zero. The designed SEPIC is simulated on MATLAB/Simulink to evaluate the performance under varying irradiance and for different values of load resistance. The experimental results show the suitability of SEPIC for maximum power extraction as it can sweep the entire I-V curve of a solar panel.