Comparative Assessment of MPPT Algorithms for PV Systems under Nouakchott’s Coastal Climate

Abstract

The efficiency of photovoltaic systems operating under Sahelian climatic conditions depends to a large extent on the effectiveness of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms. This study presents a comparative evaluation of the Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance (INC) and Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC) algorithms, applied to a photovoltaic system connected to a DC step-up converter. These algorithms were evaluated under static operating conditions, in response to dynamic variations in solar radiation and temperature, and using real meteorological profiles characteristic of Nouakchott (Mauritania). Their performance was assessed in terms of tracking accuracy, stabilization time, steady-state oscillations and energy efficiency.

The results show that the FLC algorithm performs best under static and controlled dynamic conditions, whilst the INC algorithm offers the greatest stability and ensures the highest annual energy output under real-world climatic conditions. These results highlight the importance of selecting an MPPT strategy that takes actual operating conditions into account and demonstrate that traditional algorithms can remain highly competitive in the extreme climate of the Sahel.