Z-source DC-DC Converter with Fuzzy Logic MPPT Control for Photovoltaic Applications

Z-source converters are recently premised DC-DC converters which can perform buck and boost operations, offer greater range of DC output voltage, high reliability and reduce in-rush and ripple currents. In photovoltaic (PV) applications, they provide better results compared to conventional DC-DC converters. These converters can be used as power conditioning units, so that the voltage boost and reception of maximum power from the PV array can be achieved. The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is here achieved by controlling the duty cycle of the converter. A fuzzy logic control based MPPT is developed in this work to track the maximum power point of the PV array under variable solar irradiance and temperature conditions. MATLAB simulation and experimental results are given to establish the developed system.