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A MAXIMUM POWERPOINT TRACKING SCHEME FOR STAND-ALONE SOLAR ENERGY BASED POWER SUPPLY

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The adoption of solar energy systems for stand-alone power supply has gained significant traction due to their environmental benefits and potential cost savings compared to conventional energy sources. In this work, a maximum power point tracking Scheme for stand-alone solar energy based power supply is explained, analyzed and implemented. Global climatic change, world-wide increase in energy demand, uncertainty in price and availability of non-renewable energy and world energy policies on using environmentally friendly source of energy have made Photovoltaic (PV) systems suitable for energy generation in recent times.

Energy is one of the most basic and essential of all the natural resources given to mankind. Sun is the bedrock of all the energy used in this planet earth due to fission or fusion of atomic nuclei in the sun. Energy released from the sun if properly harnessed will go a long way in ameliorating the world energy problems. Nigeria for instance, receives 5.08 x 1012 kWh of energy per day from the sun and if solar energy appliances with just 5% efficiency are used to cover only 1% of the country's surface area then 2.54 x 106 MWh per day of electrical energy can be obtained from solar energy [1]; this is the basis of this research investigations. Stand-alone photovoltaic power supply system is established as a reliable and economic source of electricity in rural areas, especially in developing countries where the population is dispersed. This is because rural areas have low incomes and the grid power supply is not fully extended to these areas due to viability and financial constraints; or even due to intermittent power supply in areas where grid system is available. It is defined as autonomous systems that supply electricity without being connected to the electric grid.

It is worthy to note that for ages the world energy sources depend on conventional sources such as fossil fuel, hydro, coal, radioactive decay etc. But all these have their peculiar problems of scarcity, rapidly depleting, causes pollution and harmful to both man and other living organisms.

It is in an attempt to solve the above problems, that necessitated this research work, since renewable energy sources are clean, pollution-free, harmless, recyclable, distributed throughout the earth and inexhaustible that makes it a better substitute. Moreover, global climatic change world-wide increase in energy demand, uncertainty in price and availability of non-renewable energy and world energy policies on using environmental friendly source of energy have made PV systems suitable for energy generation in recent time. Similarly, with the cost of solar cells decreasing [2-4], the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy is increasingly be coming economically viable. This is particularly true in a Country like Nigeria where there is abundant solar energy available throughout the year with reserve estimate of 3.5 – 7.0 kW/m 2/day [5].

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite advancements in solar energy technology, optimizing power output efficiency remains a challenge, particularly in varying environmental conditions and load demands.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine an effective Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) scheme for stand-alone solar energy systems. Specific objectives include:

i. To evaluate the impact of different MPPT algorithms on energy conversion efficiency.

ii. To determine the effectiveness of MPPT schemes in maintaining stable power output under varying environmental conditions.

iii. To find out the practical feasibility and economic viability of implementing MPPT schemes in stand-alone solar power systems.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of different MPPT algorithms on energy conversion efficiency?

ii. What is the effectiveness of MPPT schemes in maintaining stable power output under varying environmental conditions?

iii. How does the practical feasibility and economic viability of implementing MPPT schemes in stand-alone solar power systems vary?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Hypothesis I

H0: There is no significant impact of different MPPT algorithms on energy conversion efficiency.

H1: There is a significant impact of different MPPT algorithms on energy conversion efficiency.

Hypothesis II

H0: There is no significant effect of MPPT schemes in maintaining stable power output under varying environmental conditions.

H2: There is a significant effect of MPPT schemes in maintaining stable power output under varying environmental conditions.

Hypothesis III

H0: There is no practical feasibility and economic viability of implementing MPPT schemes in stand-alone solar power systems.

H3: There is practical feasibility and economic viability of implementing MPPT schemes in stand-alone solar power systems.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study will contribute to the advancement of solar energy technology by providing insights into optimizing power output efficiency in stand-alone systems, thereby promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on evaluating various MPPT algorithms and their application in stand-alone solar energy systems, considering factors such as geographical location, weather patterns, and load variations.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

Limitations include the scope being confined to theoretical analysis and simulations, rather than practical field tests due to resource constraints. Additionally, the study may not encompass all existing MPPT algorithms and their variations.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): A technique used in solar power systems to maximize the power output by continuously adjusting the operating point of the solar panel.

Stand-Alone Solar Energy System: A solar power system that operates independently of the main electrical grid, typically used in remote areas or for off-grid applications.