A Comparative Analysis of P&O, IC and Supertwisting Sliding Mode based MPPT methods for PV and Fuel Cell sourced Hybrid System

Abstract

The topic of renewable energy holds significant importance in the realm of energy production. Renewable energy systems embody cleanliness and sustainability. Reliability and robustness play a pivotal role in ensuring the effectiveness of these systems. This article focuses on a study involving hybrid Photovoltaic (PV) – Fuel Cell sources, which have been chosen as the energy sources. The system is subjected to testing under three distinct control methods. The primary objective is to discern the strengths and weaknesses of each control system concerning the specified hybrid setup. The control methods employed comprise the Super Twisting Sliding Mode Control, a PID-based Perturb and Observe Control (with the Integral constant set to zero), and Incremental Conductance (IC) Control. The simulation study undergoes testing across three different scenarios. The initial scenario entails ideal conditions, where both switching elements and circuit components are assumed to be ideal. The second scenario involves subjecting the system to varying load conditions. These loads encompass the required load and double the required load. The third scenario explores the impact of fluctuating solar radiation. The outcomes of the simulations are meticulously analysed, enabling the extraction of the advantages and drawbacks inherent in each control method based on the test results.