NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF

TECHNOLOGY SILCHAR
Department of Electrical Engineering

REPORT
Subject: Software Based System Design (EE 385)

Simulation of PV Solar Array with

MPPT in MATLAB/Simulink

Submitted by:
Shwetangshu Biswas
Scholar ID: 2213068
Semester: 6th
Contents
1 Introduction 2

2 Theoretical Background 2
2.1 PV Array Modeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
2.1.1 Temperature Effects on PV Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
2.2 Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.3 DC-DC Converter: Boost Converter Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.4 PV Cell Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3 Components Used 4

4 System Architecture and Simulation Setup 5

4.1 Simulink Model Flow Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.2 Modelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.2.1 Basic Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.2.2 Simulink Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4.3 Flowchart for P&O MPPT Algorithm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

5 Performance Analysis 8

6 Algorithm Implementation Details 9

6.1 MATLAB Code for PV and MPPT Simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
6.2 Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

7 Conclusion 13

8 Future Scope and Recent Advancements 13

8.1 Integration with Battery Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.2 Optimized Energy Storage Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.3 Off-Grid Power Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.4 Microgrids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
8.5 Building Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

A Alternative MPPT Algorithms and Extended Work 15

A.1 Incremental Conductance (IncCond) Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
A.2 Fuzzy Logic Based MPPT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
A.3 Reinforcement Learning (RL) Based MPPT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
A.4 Extended Model for Partial Shading and Dynamic Environmental Variations 16
A.5 Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Testing Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

1
 Abstract
This report presents an extensive simulation study of a photovoltaic (PV) so-
lar array integrated with a Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) using MAT-
LAB/Simulink. The document is organized into theoretical background, system
architecture, algorithm implementation, simulation results, and future work. De-
tailed mathematical models, simulation block diagrams, flowcharts, tables, and
MATLAB code are provided to illustrate the PV array behavior and demonstrate
how the MPPT algorithm optimizes power extraction under varying environmental
conditions [1, 2, 3].

1 Introduction
The increasing demand for renewable energy solutions has spurred intensive research into
optimizing photovoltaic (PV) systems. A major challenge is efficiently extracting maxi-
mum power from PV arrays despite fluctuations in irradiance and temperature. Maximum
Power Point Tracking (MPPT) techniques, such as the Perturb and Observe (P&O) al-
gorithm, enable continuous adaptation of the operating point to maximize power output.
MATLAB/Simulink provides an excellent platform for modeling these systems, testing
various MPPT algorithms, and analyzing their performance in simulated environments.

2 Theoretical Background
2.1 PV Array Modeling
The performance of a PV cell is commonly described by the single-diode model. The I-V
characteristic is given by:
   
q(V + IRs ) V + IRs
I = Iph − I0 exp −1 − , (1)
nkT Rsh
where:
• Iph is the photocurrent (dependent on irradiance),
• I0 is the diode saturation current,
• q is the electron charge (1.602 × 10−19 C),
• V is the cell voltage,
• Rs is the series resistance,
• Rsh is the shunt resistance,
• n is the diode ideality factor,
• k is the Boltzmann constant (1.381 × 10−23 J/K),
• T is the absolute temperature (K).

2.1.1 Temperature Effects on PV Cells

The photocurrent varies with temperature as:
Iph (T ) = Iph (Tref ) [1 + α(T − Tref )] , (2)
where:
• Tref is the reference temperature,
• α is the temperature coefficient.

2
2.2 Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)
The Maximum Power Point (MPP) is defined by:

Pmax = Vmpp × Impp , (3)

where Vmpp and Impp are the voltage and current at the MPP. For an optimum operating
point, the condition is given by:
dP dI
=I +V = 0. (4)
dV dV
The Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm adjusts the operating voltage based on
the observed change in power:

• If power increases after a voltage perturbation, the operating point is moved further
in that direction.
• If power decreases, the perturbation direction is reversed.

An alternative MPPT approach is the Incremental Conductance method, where:

dI I
=− . (5)
dV V

2.3 DC-DC Converter: Boost Converter Model

In the simulated system, a boost converter is used to step-up the voltage from the PV
array. Its behavior is defined by:
Vin
Vo = , (6)
1−D
where:

• Vo is the output voltage,

• Vin is the input voltage from the PV array,
• D is the duty cycle.

2.4 PV Cell Parameters

Table 1 summarizes typical PV cell parameters used in simulations.

Table 1: PV Cell Parameters

Parameter Value
Photocurrent, Iph 8.5 A
Diode Saturation Current, I0 1 × 10−10 A
Series Resistance, Rs 0.5 Ω
Shunt Resistance, Rsh 200 Ω
Diode Ideality Factor, n 1.3
Electron Charge, q 1.602 × 10−19 C
Boltzmann Constant, k 1.381 × 10−23 J/K
Temperature, T 298 K

3
3 Components Used
The MATLAB/Simulink model for the PV system simulation is constructed using a
variety of specialized blocks, each designed to perform a specific function in modeling,
measurement, control, and output. The components are described in detail below:

1. Powergui Block: This block manages the overall simulation settings, including the
selection of the solver (continuous or discrete), simulation time, and other simulation
parameters. It is essential for controlling the simulation of power system models in
Simulink.

2. PV Array Block: The PV Array block represents a system of interconnected solar

panels that convert sunlight into electrical energy. It allows the user to customize
key parameters such as irradiance, temperature, open-circuit voltage, short-circuit
current, and other cell properties to accurately model the behavior of the solar
panels under various conditions.

3. Voltage Blocks: These blocks are used to either control or monitor the voltage
within the system. In the context of a PV array, they help in limiting or managing
the voltage to ensure that the system operates within safe and optimal levels.

4. Temperature Blocks: Temperature blocks simulate the thermal conditions of the

PV array. They are important for managing or controlling the temperature, ensur-
ing the efficient operation of the PV system by replicating real-world environmental
effects on the solar panels.

5. Bus Selector: The Bus Selector block is used to manage and direct the distribution
of power. It enables the selection of specific signals (such as outputs from various
PV strings or inverter outputs) for further processing or routing to particular parts
of the system.

6. Voltage and Current Measurement Blocks:

• Voltage Measurement: This block measures the real-time voltage at differ-

ent points in the circuit, such as across the PV array.
• Current Measurement: Similarly, the current measurement block records
the real-time current flowing through various parts of the system.

7. DC-DC Boost Converter Blocks: A DC-DC boost converter increases the volt-
age from a lower DC level (such as that provided by the PV array) to a higher DC
level. It comprises:

• Power Electronics Components:

– Inductor (L): Stores energy when current flows through it and releases
it to help boost the voltage.
– Switch (e.g., MOSFET): Rapidly switches on and off to control the
energy flow through the inductor.
– Diode (D): Allows current to flow in one direction, preventing backflow
when the switch is off.

4
 – Capacitor (C): Smooths the output voltage by filtering ripples due to
the switching process.
• PWM Generator: This generator creates a Pulse Width Modulated (PWM)
signal to control the duty cycle of the boost converter. PWM regulation is
crucial for maintaining the desired output voltage by precisely managing the
switching behavior.

8. MPPT Controller Block: The Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) con-
troller is a critical part of the system. Its sub-components include:

• Voltage and Current Measurement: These sub-blocks continuously mon-

itor the real-time voltage and current from the PV array.
• Relation Operator and Memory: The relation operator compares cur-
rent power values with previous ones (stored in memory) to determine the
adjustment direction.
• MPPT using PI Controller: A PI controller is implemented to ensure the
PV system operates at its Maximum Power Point (MPP). It minimizes the
error between the actual power output and the optimum power, facilitating
smooth tracking using algorithms such as Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incre-
mental Conductance (INC), or Constant Voltage methods.

9. Output Blocks: Output blocks are used to visualize the system’s performance
and include:

• Display Block: Shows real-time data such as power output, efficiency, volt-
age, and current.
• Scope Block: Plots key signals over time, enabling detailed analysis of the
system’s behavior.

10. Load (Grid-Type Loads) Blocks: These blocks represent the power demand
from an electrical grid. In grid-tied PV systems, power can flow in two directions:
from the PV array to the grid when excess power is generated, and from the grid
to the load when the PV system output is insufficient. This component is crucial
for simulating the interaction between the PV system and the utility grid.

4 System Architecture and Simulation Setup

The MATLAB/Simulink model consists of three primary components:

1. PV Array Model: Implements the single-diode model to generate the I-V char-
acteristics.

2. MPPT Controller: Utilizes the Perturb and Observe algorithm to dynamically

adjust the operating point.

3. DC-DC Boost Converter: Adjusts the voltage level using the duty cycle deter-
mined by the MPPT controller.

5
4.1 Simulink Model Flow Diagram
MPPT DC-DC
PV Array Controller Boost Load/Grid
Model (P&O) Converter

4.2 Modelling
4.2.1 Basic Model

Figure 1: Diagram of the PV array and MPPT controller.

4.2.2 Simulink Models

Figure 2: Simulation for 800 W/m2 irradiance

6
Figure 3: Simulation for 1000 W/m2 irradiance

Figure 4: Simulation for 1200 W/m2 irradiance

7
4.3 Flowchart for P&O MPPT Algorithm
The flowchart below, details the steps of the Perturb and Observe MPPT algorithm:

Start

Initialize Vop , dV , and Pprev

Is Pnew > Pprev ?

Yes No
Increase Vop by dV Reverse dV and adjust Vop

Update Pprev and record data

Stop if Convergence

5 Performance Analysis
Output Power Analysis:

1. Power Variations with Irradiance:

• At 800 W/m2 , the PV system produced approximately 6.7 kW of power.

• At 1000 W/m2 , the power increased to 10.5 kW, showing a proportional rise.
• At 1200 W/m2 , the power further increased to 15 kW, demonstrating the
effectiveness of MPPT in tracking the maximum power point.

2. MPPT Effectiveness:

• The MPPT algorithm successfully extracted maximum power by adjusting the

duty cycle of the boost converter.
• The system exhibited rapid convergence to the maximum power point after
each irradiance change.

3. Transient Response in Power Output:

• Small spikes in power were observed when irradiance levels changed due to
transient effects, which stabilized quickly.
• The system efficiently adapted to varying solar intensity without significant
losses.

8
 Output Voltage Analysis:

1. Voltage Regulation:

• The DC-DC boost converter successfully stepped up the voltage to maintain

a stable output.
• At different irradiance levels, the output voltage remained within a narrow
range, ensuring steady power delivery.

2. Voltage Response to Irradiance Changes:

• The voltage increased proportionally as irradiance increased, maintaining a

stable operating point.
• Small oscillations were observed during transitions, but the controller quickly
stabilized the voltage.

3. Steady-State Voltage Behaviour:

• The output voltage at 800 W/m2 was around 70 volts.

• At 1000 W/m2 , the voltage increased to 90 volts.
• At 1200 W/m2 , the voltage reached 110 volts.
• This consistency in voltage output highlights the effectiveness of the boost
converter and MPPT controller.

6 Algorithm Implementation Details

6.1 MATLAB Code for PV and MPPT Simulation
The following MATLAB code simulates the PV array using the single-diode model and
implements the P&O MPPT algorithm. It also plots the I-V curve along with the con-
vergence of operating voltage and extracted power.
1 % % PV Array and MPPT Simulation
2 clear ; clc ; close all ;
3

4 % % PV Parameters
5 I_ph = 8.5; % Photocurrent ( A )
6 I_0 = 1e -10; % Diode saturation current ( A )
7 R_s = 0.5; % Series resistance ( Ohm )
8 R_sh = 200; % Shunt resistance ( Ohm )
9 n = 1.3; % Diode ideality factor
10 q = 1.602 e -19; % Electron charge ( C )
11 k = 1.381 e -23; % Boltzmann constant ( J / K )
12 T = 298; % Temperature ( K )
13

14 % % I - V Curve Simulation
15 % Voltage range for I - V curve
16 V = linspace (0 , 40 , 400) ;
17 I = zeros ( size ( V ) ) ;
18

9
19 % Compute I - V curve using the single - diode model
20 for idx = 1: length ( V )
21 % Compute exponent argument and clamp it to avoid numerical
overflow
22 exp_arg = q * V ( idx ) / ( n * k * T ) ;
23 exp_arg = min ( exp_arg , 40) ; % Clamp the exponent value to 40
24 I ( idx ) = I_ph - I_0 * ( exp ( exp_arg ) - 1) - ( V ( idx ) ) / R_sh ;
25 end
26

27 % Plot I - V curve
28 figure ;
29 plot (V , I , ’ LineWidth ’ , 2) ;
30 xlabel ( ’ Voltage ( V ) ’) ;
31 ylabel ( ’ Current ( A ) ’) ;
32 title ( ’I - V Characteristic of PV Array ’) ;
33 grid on ;
34

35 % % MPPT using Perturb and Observe ( P & O )

36 % Initial conditions for MPPT algorithm
37 V_operating = 30; % Initial operating voltage ( V )
38 dV = 0.1; % Voltage perturbation step ( V )
39 max_iter = 200; % Maximum iterations for MPPT
40 P_prev = 0; % Previous power value
41 power_history = zeros (1 , max_iter ) ;
42 voltage_history = zeros (1 , max_iter ) ;
43

44 for i = 1: max_iter
45 % Calculate current and power at current voltage with
clamping
46 exp_arg = q * V_operating / ( n * k * T ) ;
47 exp_arg = min ( exp_arg , 40) ; % Limit the exponent to avoid
overflow
48 I_operating = I_ph - I_0 * ( exp ( exp_arg ) - 1) - V_operating
/ R_sh ;
49 P_operating = V_operating * I_operating ;
50

51 voltage_history ( i ) = V_operating ;
52 power_history ( i ) = P_operating ;
53

54 % Perturb and Observe algorithm

55 if P_operating > P_prev
56 V_operating = V_operating + dV ;
57 else
58 dV = - dV ;
59 V_operating = V_operating + dV ;
60 end
61 P_prev = P_operating ;
62 end
63

64 % % Plot MPPT Convergence Results

65 figure ;

10
66 subplot (2 ,1 ,1) ;
67 plot (1: max_iter , voltage_history , ’ -o ’ , ’ LineWidth ’ , 1.5) ;
68 xlabel ( ’ Iteration ’) ;
69 ylabel ( ’ Operating Voltage ( V ) ’) ;
70 title ( ’ MPPT Voltage Convergence ’) ;
71 grid on ;
72

73 subplot (2 ,1 ,2) ;
74 plot (1: max_iter , power_history , ’ -s ’ , ’ LineWidth ’ , 1.5) ;
75 xlabel ( ’ Iteration ’) ;
76 ylabel ( ’ Extracted Power ( W ) ’) ;
77 title ( ’ MPPT Power Tracking ’) ;
78 grid on ;
Listing 1: MATLAB Code: PV Simulation with P&O MPPT

6.2 Outputs

Figure 5: IV Characteristics

11
 Figure 6: MPPT Voltage Convergence

Figure 7: MPPT Power Tracking

Figure 8: Output powers for 800 W/m2 , 1000 W/m2 , and 1200 W/m2 irradiance.

12
 Figure 9: Output voltages for 800 W/m2 , 1000 W/m2 , and 1200 W/m2 irradiance.

7 Conclusion
The simulation results provide strong evidence that the PV solar array, when coupled with
an MPPT controller, operates very close to its maximum power point under a variety
of conditions. The detailed I–V and power tracking graphs illustrate that the MPPT
algorithm rapidly adjusts the operating voltage in response to changes in environmental
parameters, ensuring that the maximum available energy is extracted from the solar array.
Key observations from the simulation include:
• Optimal Power Extraction: The convergence of the operating voltage and the
corresponding power output confirms that the MPPT controller is effective in main-
taining operation near the maximum power point, thereby maximizing energy yield.
• Dynamic Responsiveness: The system demonstrates a rapid response to vari-
ations in irradiance and temperature. This dynamic adjustment minimizes energy
losses and ensures the stability of the output despite transient fluctuations.
• System Efficiency and Stability: By continuously monitoring and adjusting the
operating parameters, the MPPT algorithm mitigates oscillations and inefficiencies
that could otherwise lead to sub-optimal performance. This is critical for the reliable
operation of PV systems, especially in variable environmental conditions.
Furthermore, the robust simulation environment provided by MATLAB/Simulink en-
ables detailed analysis and visualization of these performance metrics, offering valuable
insights for further optimization of PV systems. The results of this study underscore
the importance of advanced control strategies such as MPPT in enhancing the overall
efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems.

8 Future Scope and Recent Advancements

The evolution of MPPT technology is set to play a crucial role in the next generation
of photovoltaic systems. Recent trends and research point to several promising areas for

13
further development:

8.1 Integration with Battery Systems

Future MPPT controllers will increasingly be integrated with battery storage systems,
enabling the efficient harvesting and storage of solar energy. This integration enhances
energy flexibility and grid independence by allowing MPPT algorithms to work in tan-
dem with battery management systems, ultimately improving grid stability and offering
backup power during outages [4, 5].

8.2 Optimized Energy Storage Management

Advanced algorithms, including machine learning and reinforcement learning techniques,
are being developed to optimize the management of energy storage. These algorithms
will dynamically balance the charging and discharging cycles based on real-time energy
demand, solar generation profiles, and grid conditions. The result is reduced energy
wastage and prolonged battery life, making storage systems more efficient [6, 7].

8.3 Off-Grid Power Solutions

In remote or off-grid areas, the reliability of electricity supply is critical. MPPT tech-
nology is expected to enhance off-grid power systems by ensuring that the maximum
available solar energy is harvested and stored. This improvement will result in more re-
liable, cost-effective, and sustainable power solutions for areas lacking grid connectivity
[3].

8.4 Microgrids
As distributed energy systems and microgrids become more prevalent, MPPT controllers
will be key to managing energy flow at the local level. By ensuring optimal power
sharing between solar generation, battery storage, and local loads, MPPT technology
will contribute to enhanced stability and resilience of microgrids, particularly in scenarios
with high renewable energy penetration [5].

8.5 Building Integration

The integration of MPPT systems into building energy management systems represents
another forward-looking development. In smart buildings and net-zero energy structures,
MPPT controllers can optimize on-site energy consumption and even feed surplus energy
back into the grid. This integration supports reduced reliance on traditional energy
sources and fosters more sustainable building operations [4, 2].

References
[1] M. A. Green, Solar Cells: Operating Principles, Technology, and System Applications.
Prentice-Hall, 1982.

14
[2] T. Esram and P. L. Chapman, “Comparison of photovoltaic array maximum power
point tracking techniques,” IEEE Transactions on Energy Conversion, vol. 22, no. 2,
pp. 439–449, 2007.

[3] M. A. Eltawil and Z. Zhao, “A comprehensive review of maximum power point track-
ing algorithms for photovoltaic systems,” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews,
vol. 14, no. 7, pp. 3046–3056, 2010.

[4] S. Ghoshal, S. Banerjee, and C. K. Chanda, “Modelling and performance evalua-

tion of mppt-based solar pv system with different interfaces in matlab/simulink en-
vironment,” International Journal of Performability Engineering, vol. 17, no. 12, pp.
989–997, 2021.

[5] M. L. Katche, A. B. Makokha, S. O. Zachary, and M. S. Adaramola, “A comprehensive

review of maximum power point tracking (mppt) techniques used in solar pv systems,”
Energies, vol. 16, no. 9, p. 2206, 2023.

[6] F. Mohamed, S. Wasti, S. Afshar, P. Macedo, and V. Disfani, “Mmc-based distributed

maximum power point tracking for photovoltaic systems,” arXiv:2002.12919, 2020.

[7] R. Sharmin, S. S. Chowdhury, F. Abedin, and K. M. Rahman, “Implementation of

mppt technique of solar module with supervised machine learning,” arXiv:2110.00728,
2021.

Appendix
A Alternative MPPT Algorithms and Extended Work
This section introduces advanced MPPT strategies and model extensions to address par-
tial shading, dynamic environmental variations, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
Detailed equations, algorithmic descriptions, and system illustrations are provided below.

A.1 Incremental Conductance (IncCond) Method

The Incremental Conductance method finds the MPP by equating the derivative of power
to zero. At the maximum power point:
dP d dI
= (V I) = I + V = 0. (7)
dV dV dV
Rearranging gives the condition:
dI I
=− . (8)
dV V
If
dI I
>− ⇒ Increase V,
dV V
and if
dI I
<− ⇒ Decrease V.
dV V
This approach is analyzed in [3].

15
A.2 Fuzzy Logic Based MPPT
A fuzzy logic controller (FLC) can effectively manage the nonlinear characteristics of PV
systems. The controller uses fuzzy membership functions based on the error in power
derivative and its change:
dP
E= , (9)
dV
∆E = E(k) − E(k − 1). (10)

Based on the fuzzy rule base, the control output ∆V is determined. For example, a
sample rule is:

If E is Zero and ∆E is Negative, then decrease V slightly.

Such a rule-set enhances MPPT performance under rapidly changing conditions [3].

A.3 Reinforcement Learning (RL) Based MPPT

Reinforcement Learning techniques, such as Q-learning, can be employed to adaptively
adjust the operating voltage. The Q-learning update rule is given by:
h i
′ ′
Q(s, a) ← Q(s, a) + α r + γ max
′
Q(s , a ) − Q(s, a) , (11)
a

where:

• s and a represent the current state and action (e.g., operating voltage),
• r is the immediate reward (e.g., increase in power),
• α is the learning rate,
• γ is the discount factor,
• s′ is the next state.

This adaptive approach continuously learns the optimal voltage adjustments to maximize
power output [3].

A.4 Extended Model for Partial Shading and Dynamic Envi-

ronmental Variations
To capture the effects of partial shading, the PV array model is extended by considering
multiple sub-arrays, each experiencing distinct irradiance levels Gi . The overall array
current is modeled as:
N     
X q(V + Iarray Rs,i )
Iarray = Iph,i − I0,i exp −1 , (12)
i=1
ni kTi

which introduces multiple local maxima in the I-V curve and necessitates advanced MPPT
techniques to locate the global maximum. Detailed discussions on these effects are pro-
vided in [2].

16
A.5 Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) Testing Setup
HIL testing integrates the simulation model with actual hardware to validate system
performance under real-world conditions. The architecture is illustrated in the diagram
below.

Simulation Software(Simulink/PLECS) Interface Hardware(DAQ System) Power Electronics(Converter Hardware) Real-World Interface(Grid/Load)

Measurement Feedback (Voltage, Current)

Flow Legend:

• Blue Arrow: Digital Control Signals (PWM, Gate Drives) from Simulation Soft-
ware to Interface Hardware.

• Orange Arrow: Analog/Digital I/O (Sensor Signals) from Interface Hardware to

Power Electronics.

• Green Arrow: Power Output (AC/DC) from Power Electronics to Real-World

Interface.

• Red Dashed Arrow: Measurement Feedback (Voltage, Current) from Real-World

Interface to Simulation Software.

Citations: The alternative MPPT algorithms and the impact of partial shading are
detailed in [3] and [2].

17