In this work, the advantage of using Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm in solar Photovoltaic (PV) system was investigated. By simulation, the performance and efficiency of the system with and without the tracking algorithm was analyzed. By using MATLAB's SimPower System block set, a model compromised of KC130TM solar panel powering a Zeta converter controlled by MPPT algorithm driving a lead acid battery as a load was designed. The main objective was to track the Maximum Power Point (MPP) of the solar PV module by modulating the zeta converter's duty cycle, thereby, optimizing the power output of the panel. The Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm preformed with higher overall efficiency compared with the system without MPPT. Additionally, the tracking algorithm was able to track the MPP quickly. The analysis of the algorithm led to a greater understanding of where the inefficiencies of this type of system are located, allowing improvement in future work on this field.
