Social group algorithm-based MPPT coupled with phase shift resonant converter for battery charging through partially shaded PV systems

Abstract

The paradigm shift toward electric transportation is a necessary step in mitigating greenhouse gas discharges in connection with the internal combustion engine emissions. Nevertheless, the Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructures predominantly rely on fossil fuel-based power generation, which again aggravates climate change. Imparting renewable energy sources for powering the charging systems is therefore essential, with photovoltaic (PV) power standing out as a scalable and portable solution. In PV-based charging setups, the power available from the panels can vary widely, especially when some modules fall under shade. To keep the charging process steady during such conditions, a smarter MPPT approach becomes necessary. In this work, a single-stage full-bridge converter operating with phase-shift control is combined with an Social group optimization based MPPT method to improve how the system reacts to these fluctuations. The converter has been designed so that the switches achieve soft-switching, which helps in cutting down losses and keeping the output voltage steady over different operating points. A 3 kW prototype was built and tested along with detailed simulations. Both sets of results show that the converter, together with the MPPT strategy, is able to draw consistent power from the PV array and continue charging the battery smoothly even when the sunlight changes abruptly. The system achieves a peak efficiency of 97%, representing a notable improvement over conventional dual-stage system. Additionally, the output voltage regulation is enhanced by 2%, demonstrating the viability of the proposed converter-MPPT architecture for future PV-powered EV charging stations with improved energy conversion efficiency and resilience under environmental uncertainties.