A Cost-Efficient Dual-Stage MPPT Solar Charge Controller with IoT Integration for Reliable Energy Storage in Power-Deficient Regions

الملخص

This paper presents the design, simulation, and evaluation of a cost-efficient, dual-stage Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar-charge controller integrated with an Internet of Things (IoT) monitoring system, aimed at enhancing reliable energy storage in regions characterized by frequent power interruptions, such as the Gaza Strip. The proposed system adopts a cascaded DC–DC converter architecture, in which a Ćuk converter performs high-efficiency Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) using the Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm, while a subsequent Buck converter provides stable and safe charging of a 12 V lead-acid battery. This dual-stage configuration effectively decouples the process of power extraction from voltage regulation, thereby optimizing overall system performance. The controller was rigorously evaluated through MATLAB/Simulink simulations using a user-defined photovoltaic (PV) array. The obtained results demonstrate robust and rapid dynamic tracking performance, with convergence times ranging between 0.048 s and 0.165 s under varying environmental conditions. The Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm successfully extracted maximum power, achieving 265 W under standard test conditions (1000 W/m², 25 °C) and 132 W under reduced irradiance conditions (500 W/m², 25 °C). Furthermore, real-time monitoring was implemented using an ESP32 microcontroller connected to the Arduino IoT Cloud, enabling continuous visualization of critical system and meteorological parameters. The proposed approach provides a reliable, high-efficiency, and easily monitored solution, offering a practical pathway for improving energy utilization in small-scale off-grid photovoltaic (PV) systems.