Work

The Impact of Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithms on Properties of On-Chip PV-Based Energy Harvester for IoT Devices

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This article presents the analysis of selected maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms and their influence on developed energy harvester (EH) systems under uniform conditions. The energy harvester is an electronic system that converts available ambient energy to electrical energy and regulates its distribution to the output. The aim is to design an energy harvester with the highest integration rate possible with consideration of area requirements and low power consumption. To improve the overall energy conversion of the developed harvester, we implemented several MPPT algorithms (Pilot Cell, Constant Voltage, Perturb and Observe) into a dedicated MPPT controller that controls the DC-DC converter. Consequently, we experimentally analyzed their impact on the harvester system. Findings show that even simple algorithms with smaller chip areas and lower power consumption can achieve results comparable to more complex ones. The proposed, manufactured and experimentally evaluated EH chip prototype has proven its expected functionality and is therefore fully capable of supplying energy for low-power electronics and battery-operated devices.

Source: Sensors

DOI: 10.3390/s26031051

Authors: Adam Hudec, Viera Stopjakova, Robert Ondica, Miroslav Potocny, Lukas Nagy

Institution: Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava

Language: English

Topic: Photovoltaic System Optimization Techniques

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137