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This article introduces a new AC MPPT (maximum power point tracking) controller for single-stage three-phase grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) voltage source inverters (VSIs) with active/reactive power control capability. Novelty lies in employing the theory of power transfer in short AC transmission lines to achieve MPPT, where two independent control variables exist: load angle and inverter modulation index. Accordingly, the proposed controller maximizes the capabilities of the single-stage VSI and enables it to control either/both active power or/and reactive power, besides achieving MPPT function. Such contribution opens up avenues in MPPTs world in terms of flexibility, fast performance, and low hardware count/cost. AC refers to Alternate Current since the MPPT is managed in AC terms. Theoretical framework of the proposed controller has been addressed. Moreover, the overall system is simulated in MATLAB (The MathWorks, Natick, Massachusetts, USA) environment, and results have been introduced. Design and implementation of proposed algorithms have been carried out using a fixed-point digital signal processor (DSP)TMS320F2812. Furthermore, a breadboard circuit is built up for experimentally investigating the controller's performance using 3-phase VSI that connects PV with the grid. In addition to that, a comprehensive discussion is conducted for demonstrating results. Moreover, a detailed comparison of proposed work with a number of previously published papers in literature is carried out and addressed in this manuscript. Results reveal that introduced controller achieves satisfactory performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper a new quantity for current-sensorless power-angle-based MPPT for single-stage grid-connected photovoltaic voltage-source inverters (VSIs). The proposed tracker eliminates the use of the current sensor by using only the voltage sensor: The current sensor is substituted with a new quantity, which is the sine value of the power-angle (the phase angle between the inverter output voltage and the power grid voltage). A theoretical proof for this quantity is developed and is provided. Then the controller is designed and implemented using a digital signal processor (DSP). Algorithms are configured on a fixed point DSP TMS320F2812. Moreover, a breadboard has been built-up for testing the use of the proposed tracker with a single-stage grid-connected photovoltaic voltage-source inverter. Both of simulation and experimental results show that the proposed tracker attains a satisfactory performance. On the other hand, it requires a good control tool to accurately achieve the arithmetic calculations. A substantial part of the manufacturing cost and complexity burdens of MPPTs involves the use of current sensors. Considering this investigation saves cost, decreases complexity, and therefore increases the power density of the MPPTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]