An Enhanced Fractional Open Circuit Voltage MPPT Method for Rapid and Precise MPP Tracking in Standalone Photovoltaic Systems

This paper proposes a hybrid Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) approach that combines the Musical Chairs Algorithm (MCA) with the Fractional Open Circuit Voltage (FOCV) method to enhance power extraction from solar panels under varying weather conditions. Unlike traditional MPPT techniques that focus on standalone optimization, the proposed method leverages the strengths of both algorithms using a single decision variable, thereby simplifying the process and reducing convergence time. While FOCV suffers from limited tracking efficiency and lower power output, the hybrid approach addresses these drawbacks effectively. The performance of the proposed technique is validated using MATLAB/SIMULINK under various irradiance conditions, including gradual irradiance variation. The findings confirm that the proposed hybrid approach ensures faster response, higher efficiency, and superior stability across dynamic environmental conditions.

Keywords: Photovoltaic (PV) system, maximum power point tracking (MPPT), fractional open circuit voltage (FOCV), musical chairs algorithm (MCA), boost converter.