Comparative Performance of PSO-MPPT and Conventional P&O-MPPT Algorithms for Photovoltaic Systems

Abstract

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is used to maximize the extraction of the power available from photovoltaic (PV) arrays as irradiance and temperature change. This study compares conventional Perturb and Observe (P&O) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) MPPT algorithms applied independently to the same PV-array/boost-converter system supplying a DC load rated at approximately 10.5 kW. The array comprises 64 monocrystalline PV modules and has an installed nominal capacity of approximately 21.1 kW based on the module rating reported in Table 1. The nominal array capacity, load rating, and instantaneous operating power are distinct quantities; the simulated waveforms show extracted PV power reaching approximately 15–16 kW under the modelled operating conditions. Voltage, current, power, transient response, and steady-state oscillatory behaviour are compared. Both algorithms move the PV operating point toward the maximum-power region. The observed PSO response recovers after the imposed operating transitions, but it also exhibits appreciable current and power oscillations. Accordingly, the results support a balanced comparison between dynamic recovery and steady-state ripple rather than an unconditional claim of superiority for either method.