NIT Rourkela Patents Low-Cost Technology to Optimize Solar Panel Efficiency

New Delhi, March 2​

Innovation for Improved Solar Power Extraction​

The newly patented technology, "Method And System For Voltage Sensor-based Maximum Power Point Tracking For Photovoltaic System," focuses on optimizing solar power generation through an advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technique. Unlike conventional MPPT methods, which rely on expensive current sensors, the NIT Rourkela innovation employs a voltage sensor-based approach that significantly reduces costs while improving efficiency.

According to Susovon Samanta, Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering, NIT Rourkela, solar panels generate varying amounts of electricity throughout the day due to changes in sunlight intensity and temperature. MPPT ensures that solar panels operate at their highest efficiency by dynamically adjusting voltage and current.

How the Technology Works​

The system consists of:

• A microcontroller running the MPPT algorithm
• Sensors to measure voltage and current
• A DC-DC converter regulating power flow

"Our system continuously monitors the solar panel’s output and makes micro-adjustments to maintain peak efficiency while reducing energy waste," said Samanta. Traditional MPPT methods often struggle with slow responses to weather changes and inefficiencies due to their reliance on costly current sensors.

Advantages Over Traditional MPPT Systems​

The newly developed voltage sensor-based MPPT method offers multiple advantages:

• Eliminates the need for current sensors, reducing overall system cost and complexity.
• Enhances tracking efficiency for better photovoltaic (PV) energy harvesting.
• Provides stable power output by mitigating small power fluctuations.
• Responds rapidly to environmental changes, ensuring consistent peak efficiency.
• Offers a versatile and adaptable design, allowing seamless integration into various solar power setups.

Potential Applications in Renewable Energy​

The researchers emphasized the wide-ranging applications of this cost-effective technology, making it a game-changer for small-scale and affordable solar energy projects. Some key applications include:

• Solar-powered IoT devices such as weather sensors and remote communication towers, ensuring uninterrupted energy supply.
• Consumer solar products like home lighting systems and portable solar chargers, where cost efficiency is critical.
• Microgrid and off-grid energy solutions, providing a reliable power source in remote and rural areas.

Government Support and Future Prospects​

The research was funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Clean Energy Research Initiative (CERI). With its affordability and efficiency, the innovation holds promise for accelerating renewable energy adoption in India and beyond.

This patented technology could pave the way for more cost-effective and accessible solar energy solutions, particularly in developing regions where affordability remains a major barrier to clean energy adoption.