Evaluation of Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithms for Photovoltaic Electricity Generation in Kuwait

Abstract

Consumption of electrical energy in Kuwait is rapidly increasing. The production of this energy currently depends mainly on oil and its derivatives to drive the different power plants in the country. The combustion of such fossil fuel comes with a well-known environmental pollution. Local oil production represents a key income for Kuwait and intelligent consumption of oil is therefore an essential concern to the Kuwait economy. The power system and economy of Kuwait may benefit from utilizing clean and renewable energy resources such as solar energy. This paper considers the modelling and control of PV system using in market available modules as an example, and factoring in geographical conditions relevant to Kuwait. As the generated power from PV panel depends on solar irradiation and temperature, the hourly values of these meteorological factors are collected and analysed for a time horizon of 6 years. Based on the system model three widely-adopted MPPT algorithms are compared and their performances are evaluated. Validation of each algorithm model is carried out using MATLAB/Simulink simulations.