COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN MPPT AND PWM CHARGE CONTROLLERS FOR OPTIMIZING SOLAR ENERGY APPLICATIONS
Abstract
Abstract
This project presents a comparative evaluation of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charge controllers based on an experimental measurement campaign conducted at The Polytechnie, Ibadan. The experiment was carried out over a charging duration of 480 minutes using a photovoltaie module connected to a 12 V battery system. Realtime measurements of voltage, current, and power were recorded for both controllers under naturally varying solar irradiance conditions, In addition, weather parameters including temperature, relative humidity, and solar irradiance were monitored to examine their influence on system performance. The methodology involved simultaneous operation of the two controllers with identical load and panel conditions to ensure fairness. Electrical parameters (voltage, current,
power) and environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, irradiance) were collected at regular intervals, processed, and analyzed with respect to voltage stability, current delivery, instantaneous
power, cumulative energy, and efficiency. Results showed that both controllers maintained stable charging voltages within 12.3-12.9 V. However, the MPPT consistently delivered higher charging currents (0.83-0.92 A) compared to PWM (0.49-0.70 A), translating into greater power outputs.
At 200 minutes, MPPT produced 10.836 W versus 6.410 W from PWM, while at 400 minutes
MPPT delivered 10.383 W compared to PWM's 7.232 W. Over the full charging period, MPPT harvested 88.18 Wh of cumulative energy, about 60% more than PWM's 55.12 Wh. Efliciency analysis further highlighted MPPT's ability to adapt to fluctuating irradiance, whereas PWM performance declined with environmental variability. In conclusion, the campaign confirms that although both controllers provide stable voltages, MPPT is markedly superior in energy harvesting and efficiency. These findings strongly recommend MPPT controllers for photovoltaie systems, especially in regions with variable irradiance and weather conditions.
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