2023 International Conference in Advances in Power, Signal, and Information Technology

Solar-Powered EV DC Fast Charging Station based on MPPT-Buck

Converter Design using PSO Trained NN Algorithm and MPC.
Roubins Kumar Upananda Sahoo
Eriga Robert
Department of Electrical Engineering Department of Electrical Engineering
Department of Electrical Engineering
C.V. Raman Global University C.V. Raman Global University
C.V. Raman Global University
Bhubaneswar, India Bhubaneswar, India
Bhubaneswar, India
robrobrob2710@gmail.com upanandasahoo2018@gmail.com
erigarobert2@gmail.com
Manish Kumar Sharma
Department of Electrical Engineering
C.V. Raman Global University
2023 International Conference in Advances in Power, Signal, and Information Technology (APSIT) | 979-8-3503-3936-9/23/$31.00 ©2023 IEEE | DOI: 10.1109/APSIT58554.2023.10201780

Bhubaneswar, India
mksharma@cgu-odisha.ac.in

Abstract— Due to government incentives, environmental
concerns, and lower operating costs, there has been a significant
increase in the adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Consequently, supporting the rapid growth of the EV market
trend requires the availability of fast charging stations. However,
traditional grid-based charging stations are unsustainable as they
increase their carbon footprint and strain the grid, potentially
causing power outages. This paper proposes a solar-powered EV
DC fast charging station that utilizes a buck converter with
Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) trained Neural Network
(NN) for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and Model
Predictive Control (MPC) as the controller. The proposed system
aims to provide fast and reliable EV charging while minimizing
the impact on the grid during daylight hours. Results obtained
via MATLAB simulation demonstrate the effectiveness, stability,
reliability, and robustness of the proposed system. Therefore, this
study presents a promising direction toward developing
sustainable and efficient DC EV charging infrastructure using
clean and green energy.
Keywords—PSO, NN, MPC, Buck Converter and DC
fast charging.
I. INTRODUCTION
As the world becomes increasingly dependent on
renewable sources of energy, solar power has emerged as
one of the most promising options.[1] Charging of EVs
using solar power is also being introduced. EV charging
increases demand for electricity during times when it may
not be available, which can create additional stress on the
grid. If large numbers of EVs charge simultaneously, it
could cause localized brownouts or blackouts.[2]
PV solar panels to charge EVs can help reduce the strain
on the grid during peak demand periods. During times of
high electricity demand, utilities may struggle to maintain
grid stability, leading to power outages and other issues. By
using solar power to charge EVs, less energy is drawn from
the grid, which reduces the burden on the grid during these
peak periods.[3]
Solar panels are being used to generate electricity in
homes, businesses, and even in large-scale power plants.
However, the efficiency of solar panels is highly dependent
on the intensity of sunlight falling on them. Maximum
Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms optimize solar
panels’ power output by tracking the maximum power point
at which the panel operates.
It has been reported that the buck and buck/boost DC-DC
choppers are utilized for MPPT. One of the most widely
used techniques for solar power charging of batteries is the
buck converter. A DC-DC converter known as the buck
converter is employed to reduce the voltage output from the
solar panel. to a level suitable for charging the battery [4].
The efficiency of the buck converter is highly dependent on
the input voltage, and hence, it is essential to employ MPPT
algorithms to track the maximum power point of the solar
panel. When utilizing these algorithms, there is a
compromise to be made when selecting the increment value
used for adjusting the controlled parameter, which can
include duty cycle or reference voltage. [6]
P&O is a simple and widely used MPPT algorithm that
perturbs the operational point of a solar system and controls
the resulting power change. The main advantages of P&O
are simplicity, low computer requirements, and ease of use.
However, it can suffer fluctuations around the maximum
power point and may not perform well in rapidly changing
conditions.[5]
PSO involves a population of particles traveling around a
search space to identify the ideal solution. In the case of
MPPT, the particles represent potential operational points of
the PV system, and their movements are governed by a
fitness function that evaluates the power output at each
point. [7] The key advantages of PSO are its capacity to
handle non-linear and non-convex optimization problems,
and its adaptability under quickly changing conditions.
However, it requires more computational resources than
P&O, and its effectiveness depends greatly on the choice of
parameters.
NN-based MPPT algorithms use Artificial Neural Network
(ANN) to understand the link between the input (such as
temperature and irradiance) and the ideal operating point.
NN-based MPPT algorithms have the capacity for high
accuracy and responsiveness to changing conditions
However, they require a larger dataset for training, which
can be difficult to obtain in some cases.[8]
While selecting a controller for a buck converter, there are
various elements that need to be considered in ensuring the
optimal performance and efficiency of the system. These
elements can be Voltage and current requirements, Control
algorithm, Response time, Noise immunity,
Proportional Integral (PI) is a simple feedback control loop
that regulates the buck converter output voltage using both
proportional and integral terms. Together, the PI
components of the PI controller work to maintain the output
voltage of the buck converter at the desired level by
modifying the duration of time for which the switch remains
on versus off, the duty cycle can be adjusted. [7] The PID
controller is commonly used in DC-DC buck converters

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632
 because it provides good performance with relatively simple Where,
implementation. However, the gains of the controller need
to be properly tuned to ensure stability and optimal I = PV cell Current(A)
performance. Ipv = Light generated current(A)
The MPC controller in a buck converter monitors the MPP Io = Diode saturation current(A)
by optimizing the duty cycle based on input voltage and ID = Diode current(A)
current measurements. The controller accounts for the PV Io = Short Circuit current(A)
array's nonlinear properties and changes the duty cycle to q =Electron Charge(C)
keep the system from drifting too far away from the K =Boltzmann Constant
MPP.[9] T =Temperature(K)
However, designing an efficient Solar PV-powered EV fast V= PV Cell output Voltage
charging station requires addressing several technical Rs =PV cell Series resistance
challenges, including maximizing the power extracted from
the solar PV, regulating the output voltage, and ensuring the Here two PV modules have been used. One module has
stability of the charging process. been connected in series and the other in parallel. Table (1)
This paper proposes a novel solution to these challenges, presents the ratings of the parameter used for the simulation.
based on the design of a MPPT buck converter using PSO
trained NN algorithm and MPC strategy. TABLE I. SOLAR PV MODEL DATA

Parameter Rating
II. THE PROPOSED SYSTEM
Input Voltage: Voc and Vmp 36.6 and 29v
The proposed system consists of a PV array that generates Input Current: Isc and Imp 7.84 and 7.35 A
DC power using sunlight, which is then connected to the
buck converter. The output of the buck converter is then
Input Power 213.15w
connected to an EV fast charger that charges the EV's
battery. Neural Network-based MPPT algorithm is utilized
that optimizes the power output of the solar panel array by
continuously tracking the maximum power point (MPP).
Moreover, MPC is used as a controller to regulate the output
voltage of the buck converter.

Fig. 2. P-V Characteristics.

The photon-generated current is heavily influenced by
fluctuations in solar irradiation, while the open circuit
voltage is minimally impacted.
Temperature changes have a significant impact on the open
circuit voltage, while their effect on the short circuit current
is quite negligible. Furthermore, these currents are subject to
Fig 1 Block Diagram of the system variation based on the solar radiation parameter.

The proposed system is divided into 5 sections (solar PV

System, MPPT Technique, Controller, Buck converter, and
EV Battery) and they are discussed below.
a) Solar PV System
Photovoltaic cells are summed to form a solar panel,
while a collection of solar panels connected either in series
or parallel creates a Solar Array system. The maximum
power point tracker system sources from this module,

I=I −I e −
utilizing the equations of a standard solar cell.
(1)
= ln(1 − ) (2)

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633

Fig. 3. Irradiance and Temperature Variation.
b) MPPT Technique
(Particle Swarm Optimization Trained Neural Network)
NN is a machine learning algorithm that is modeled after
the function and structure of human brain and is vastly used
in solving complex problems. The network is comprised of
an input layer and an output layer, both of which can be
linked to the outer perimeter of the system. The hidden
layer, on the other hand, is not connected to the outer
perimeter. The input layer accepts the neural network input
data and transmits it to the hidden layer's neurons for
multiplication by weight vectors. Following this
multiplication process, the final output is obtained from the
output layer. The hidden layer is responsible for performing
intermediate calculations between the input layer and output
layer. The number of layers responsible for taking in data
and generating results, neurons may be determined based on
the number of constraints present, while the number of
neurons in the hidden layer is dependent upon the desired
level of accuracy and computation time.
PSO algorithm has been chosen here for training purpose. it
is a stochastic optimization algorithm that uses a population
of particles to search for the optimal solution in a high-
dimensional search space.
Fig 4 NN Structure with PSO Algorithm.
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634
In this method, the weights and biases of the neural network
are represented by PSO particles, which are updated to
minimize the Mean Square Error after each iteration. The
number of iterations is predetermined, and the particles are
allowed to move in space for that specified duration. At the
end of the iterations, the weights and biases corresponding
to the global best particle are taken as an initial guess for the
neural network. As a result, the PSO is able to obtain
weights and biases that are sufficiently close to the
convergence point.
%% PSO Parameters
MaxIt=50; % Maximum Number of Iterations
nPop=50; % Population Size (Swarm Size)
w=1; % Inertia Weight
wdamp=0.99; % Inertia Weight Damping Ratio
c1=1.5; % Personal Learning Coefficient
c2=2.0; % Global Learning Coefficient
VelMax=0.1*(VarMax-VarMin);
VelMin=-VelMax;
Fig 5 Performance of PSO during training.
This technique found the optimal weights of the NN without
getting trapped in the local minima. The exploration of the
search space by adjusting the velocity and position of
particles, resulted in obtaining the global minimum of the
error function.
c) Buck Converter.
The converter is designed to decrease the output voltage
while simultaneously increasing the output current,
effectively maintaining a constant power output. A typical
buck converter comprises of a diode, a switch (such as
MOSFET or IGBT), an inductor, and a capacitor. During the
ON stage of the switch, the inductor serves as an energy
storage component. Meanwhile, the capacitor functions as a
filter to minimize voltage ripple.
Fig 6 Buck Converter
 CASE 1: In the ON stage (b), current travels from the source
to the load through both the inductor and capacitor, leading
to an increase in current at the switch and the inductor. Once
the switch closes, the inductor stores a portion of the current
and channels the remaining current towards the capacitor
and load. The duty cycle and alteration of inductor current
d) Controller - Model Predictive Control
MPC, a sophisticated approach to process control, is used to
regulate a process while accounting for a range of
uncertainties and constraints. This control technique can be
applied to both complex and simple dynamical systems

(∆I# )$% = ∗α∗T (3)

during the ON State are depicted as using dynamic models of the process. These models are
&'( )
*
typically linear empirical models obtained through system
identification.
CASE 2: In the OFF stage (b), the source (Vin) is unable to By optimizing a finite time horizon while only
supply current. Instead, the load draws current from the implementing changes for the current timeslot, MPC enables
inductor, causing the current at the inductor to progressively optimization of future timeslots as well. As a result, it
decrease. The alteration of inductor current during this differs from linear-quadratic regulators. Unlike PID and PI
phase is expressed as controllers, MPC is capable of predicting future outputs and
taking appropriate control actions based on these
(∆I# )$// = − )
∗ (1 − α) ∗ T
predictions. And it has reduced overshoot and exhibits
*
(4) outstanding performance.
It requires less time to reach the set point under steady-state
During steady-state conditions, the inductor current is conditions, and the offsets are smaller compared to the other
comprised of two distinct components: the current that controllers.[11]
occurs when the switch is turned on (at the beginning of
each switching cycle) and the current that takes place when

(∆I# )$% + (∆I# )$// = 0

the switch is turned off (at the end of each switching cycle).

∗α∗T + − ∗ (1 − α) ∗ T = 0
(5)
&'( ) )
* *
(6)
2=
3
345
(7)

where, Vout is output voltage, 2 is duty cycle and Vin is input

voltage.
Applying Kirchhoff's current law and voltage law(KCL and
KVL), the circuit diagram shown in Fig (6) was analyzed to
Fig 7 MPC control structure
calculate the duty cycle and to develop a mathematical
model that can represent the current in the inductor and
Prediction Design
voltage in the capacitor as a state space equation.
To create the MPC discrete control, it is necessary to have a
ẋ =78+9: and ==>8+?: (8)
discrete-time averaged state space model that can be used
for control purposes. Once the model has been discretized,
where the state vector 8=inductor current and capacitor
future predicted state variables can be generated. In this
voltage, the = denotes the output, and the : denotes the
paper, the discretization of the control is achieved through
the use of the zero-order hold (zoh) technique.
input of the system. To convert the system into a discrete state space, the c2d in
Pre-existing function has been employed. The equation for
TABLE II. PARAMETER USED IN THE SIMULATION.
this process is presented as

(J+1) =7KL(J)+9K:(J) (9)

Parameters Ratings

(J)=>KL(J)+?K: (10)
Input Voltage (Vmp) 29v
Input Current (Imp) 5.8683

Where; The discrete state vector is represented by (J),

Switching frequency (F) 10KHz
while =(J) indicates the system output and :(J) refers
to the input parameter at the J sampling interval.
Capacitor (C1) and C2 0.0100f and 1.8491e-05f
Inductor (L) 0.0045
The above equation is utilized to forecast predicted
response of the controlled plant system. At each
Diode Matlab – ideal Diode

sampling time J where J > 0 the controlled input signal

Switch (MOSFET) Matlab - ideal Mosfet
(J) and the state vector L(J) are forecasted across the
prediction horizon of [\ sampling intervals. This
enables the creation of new input and state vectors as

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635
 described in the following formulation:
:(0|J)
⎡ ⎤
:(J + 1|J)
⎢ ⎥
U(k) = ⎢ :(J + 2|J) ⎥ (11)
⎢ ⋮ ⎥
⎣:(J + [f g |J)⎦
L(0|J)
⎡ ⎤
L(J + 1|J)
⎢ ⎥
k(J) = ⎢ L(J + 2|J) ⎥ (12)
⎢ ⋮ ⎥
⎣L(J + [f |J)⎦
At every time J, the input signal and the state vectors at a
given time instant J+l are represented by :(J+l|J) and
L(J+l|J), respectively. Fig. 8 (b)Output Response (against Internal Plant)
The formulation above enables the prediction of new input
and state vectors across the prediction horizon, which can be e) EV Battery
expressed as a new predicted state space.

Z(J+l+1|J) =7KL(J+l|J) +9K:(J+l|J) (13)

MATLAB-Simulink generic battery model is used as the EV

l=0,1,2, …
The compact state of the predicted state equation can be
obtained by combining equations (11), (12), and (13) with
the discrete linear state space model in equations (9) and
(10). Additionally, considering into account the initial
condition at the beginning of the prediction horizon such
that (0|J)=L(J), then the formulation will be,
battery. Lithium-ion has been considered with a nominal
voltage 12v, rated capacity 75Ah, initial state of charge is 45
(%) and battery response time is 0.001 (s).
III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Using MATLAB/Simulink software, the proposed system
was simulated and the results revealed that it could rapidly
charge the EV battery while minimizing reliance on the

(J+l|J) =Qk(J)+Hq(J) (14)

utility grid during daylight hours, regardless of varying
conditions. The MPPT algorithm, based on a neural network
trained using PSO, was able to precisely track the maximum
7K
Where ,
⎡ 7K s ⎤
power point of the solar PV.

⎢ ⎥
Q =⎢ 7K t ⎥ (15)
⎢ ⋮ ⎥
⎣7K uf ⎦

9K 0 … 0
7K9K 9K … ⋮
H =w { (16)
⋮ ⋮ ⋱ 0
7K u (x 9K 7K u (z 9K … 9K

Fig 9 PV power Vs Proposed MPPT Power.

The MPPT has perform well under different operating

conditions, including rapidly changing irradiation and
temperature conditions. This is because the algorithm can
adapt to changes in the input data and adjust the weights and
biases of the NN accordingly resulting in higher energy
efficiency.

Fig. 8(a) Input Response (against Internal Plant)

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Fig 10 Voltage Output with MPC and Without
A gradual increase in voltage is observed in the system
when it was simulated without the MPC. Meanwhile, the
MPC was able to predict the effect of disturbances (such as
changes in load or input voltage.) and adjust the control
inputs to maintain stable operation yielding better
performance and faster response times compared to the
system without the MPC controller.
Fig 11 EV Battery state of charge
IV. CONCLUSION
In this paper, proposed solar-powered EV fast charging
station based on MPPT- Buck converter design using PSO-
trained NN for MPPT and MPC as the controller. The
proposed system provides fast and reliable charging for EVs
while minimizing its impact on the utility grid during day
hours. The proposed MPPT technique provides an effective
and efficient solution for MPP in PV systems at different
temperature and irradiance variations, leading to improved
energy harvesting efficiency and reduced cost. It was able to
adapt to changes in operating conditions and provide
accurate tracking of the MPP. Utilizing over-prediction
horizon intervals, the MPC control method accurately
predicts the future behavior of the controlled plant and
produces a faster transient response while minimizing
overshooting. Simulation results obtained using
MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate that the proposed system
is highly effective and efficient for use in DC fast charging
station for EVs where fixed voltage equivalent to the EV
battery terminal is required.
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637
V. FUTURE SCOPE
The present work only considered Solar PV as the only
source of energy for the Charging station making it
unavailable at night and sometimes unreliable during cloudy
days.
Then the future work includes the integration of Wind
energy and Energy storage system for direct fast charging of
EVs to increase power reliability. Integrating of Internet of
Things (IoT) in the DC fast charging station would make it
easier to access the real-time data processing and analysis
techniques to continuously monitor the charging station
operations based on changing environmental and usage
conditions.
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