A comprehensive review of global maximum power point tracking algorithms for photovoltaic systems

The proposed paper provides a detailed, critical and comprehensive review of the widely used and recently developed global maximum power point tracking (GMPPT) algorithms for photovoltaic (PV) systems. For the ease of comparison, the algorithms are categorized into four major groups, (1) optimization algorithms, (2) hybrid techniques of two different optimization algorithms, (3) hybrid techniques of optimization algorithm with the conventional algorithm, and (4) other GMPPT algorithms. A comprehensive table is also presented at the end of the discussion of each category to evaluate the performance of GMPPT algorithms in the context of algorithm complexity, converter’s type, tracking speed, efficiency, sensor types and quantities, and partial shading detection scheme. The analysis in the proposed paper will help the designers to select the appropriate GMPPT algorithm for their photovoltaic system.