Maximum power point tracking control method for proton exchange membrane fuel cell
The load and hydrogen pressure changes in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) result in instability and reduce the efficiency of the output power. This study proposes an extension sliding mode controller (ESMC) for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of the fuel cells to enhance system efficiency and to reach the steady state of the output power. The experimental platform is set at a 200-watt PEMFC in this study. Results show that the tracking speed of the ESMC is 0.95 s, and the booster conversion efficiency is 94.5%; both are superior to other conventional MPPT methods. This study demonstrates a number of key technologies for renewable energy systems.