Solar energy remains a cornerstone in global efforts toward sustainable power generation. In the residential solar sector, photovoltaic (PV) systems are increasingly valued for their low operational costs and ability to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. However, the variability of solar irradiance and temperature presents a constant challenge: to extract maximum efficiency, a PV system must continually adjust to its changing Maximum Power Point (MPP) [1].

This challenge is typically addressed through Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms. The most common techniques—Perturb and Observe (P&O) and Incremental Conductance (INC)—are easy to implement and widely utilized due to their simplicity and low cost. Nevertheless, these techniques often oscillate around the MPP and can become trapped in local maxima when irradiance changes rapidly or partial shading occurs [2][3]. This makes them less effective under dynamic real-world conditions.

To overcome these limitations, researchers have explored artificial intelligence and nature-inspired optimization techniques. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is one such method, mimicking the collective behavior of flocks to find the global MPP even when multiple peaks are present. While PSO is robust when dealing with complex shading scenarios, it typically requires longer convergence times and higher computational resources—factors that limit its utility in real-time embedded systems [4].

Fuzzy Logic Controllers (FLCs) have also gained attention in MPPT applications. Their rule-based design allows them to adapt to system nonlinearities without relying on precise mathematical models—an advantage in uncertain environmental conditions [5]. However, the performance of fuzzy logic systems heavily relies on how well their rules and membership functions are designed. Poor tuning can result in inefficient control and instability.

In recent years, hybrid strategies have emerged, combining complementary algorithms to improve adaptability. For example, combinations of P&O and PSO [6] and fuzzy logic-PSO [7] have shown notable improvements. However, they often lack intelligent switching between strategies in real time. Most simulations are conducted under fixed conditions and do not fully reflect real-world scenarios such as cloud interference, dust accumulation, or daily temperature fluctuations—especially in tropical climates like Nigeria [8].

A recent Nature publication highlighted the effectiveness of an Incremental Conductance–Fuzzy Logic MPPT with novel input variables, achieving an average 97.7% efficiency under dynamic irradiance—but the controller still oscillates during rapid transitions [9]. Another study in Frontiers in Energy Research featuring a Pelican Optimization and P&O hybrid reported 99% efficiency and low distortion under grid-connected conditions—but, like many hybrid systems, it lacked real-time switching logic [10].

Despite advancements in MPPT strategies, research gaps remain. Existing hybrids rarely incorporate a true real-time decision-making mechanism that selects the appropriate algorithm as environmental conditions change. Most studies lack validation using real-world irradiance and temperature profiles, focusing instead on static or ideal conditions. Additionally, there is minimal focus on adaptive switching, especially in residential-scale PV systems tailored to tropical climates. To address these gaps, this study proposes a triple-hybrid MPPT controller—integrating P&O, PSO, and FLC—where the fuzzy logic unit dynamically chooses between P&O and PSO based on real-time evaluation of the power-voltage slope ( d P d V ) and power change rate ( d P d t ) [11]. The incorporation of both the instantaneous power–voltage gradient ( d P d V ) and the temporal rate of power change ( d P d t ) into the FLC decision process enables rapid and accurate detection of irradiance transients. This dual-parameter sensitivity allows the controller to distinguish between gradual and abrupt solar variations, making it particularly advantageous in tropical regions, where frequent and significant irradiance fluctuations due to fast-moving clouds demand quick MPPT adaptation to maintain optimal power extraction. The controller in this research work is tested in MATLAB/Simulink using variable irradiance and temperature profiles similar to those in Nigeria. We hypothesize that this strategy will significantly improve tracking efficiency, convergence time, and resilience compared to standalone or dual-hybrid systems [12]. This research work offers a significant step forward in optimizing solar energy harvesting, particularly in standalone PV systems where efficiency and resilience are critical factors. The main contributions of the research paper are the following:

1) Designs an FLC supervisor that adaptively selects or blends P&O and PSO based on operating conditions (irradiance variability, partial shading, convergence state, computational budget). The result is a fast response in gently varying conditions (P&O) and robust global search under severe non-uniform conditions (PSO), with smooth transitions.

2) Demonstrates that the hybrid control reduces oscillations around the MPP compared with stand-alone P&O, and shortens convergence time compared with stand-alone PSO, thereby improving instantaneous power stability and lowering power losses from hunting.

This research paper starts with an introduction that consists of the research background. Section 2 presents the PV diode model configuration, and Section 3 provides an overview of the methodology used for this research work. Section 4 presents the results. Finally, Section 5 concludes the paper.

Energy is generated by PV cells when sunlight is absorbed and transformed into an electric current. A solar panel contains multiple PV cells, and the total current generated by the combination of these cells is sufficient to power homes and businesses. An ideal current source is coupled in parallel with a real diode to form a simple equivalent circuit that represents a solar cell. A perfect current source’s output is proportional to the amount of solar irradiation it receives. AppendixFigure A1 indicates the single-diode model for PV cells.

This can be modeled mathematically using the following equation.

where, I designs output current, I o represents diode reverse saturation current, V p v is output voltage of PV, I p v is current generated by PV cell, R s is series resistance, n is the diode’s ideality factor, q is 1.602 × 10 − 19 coulombs, R s h is shunt resistance, K is Boltzmann constant with a value of 1.381 × 10 − 23 J / K [13][14].

The output current generated by the PV system can be represented using the following equation.

where N p and N s design parallel and series cells, respectively.

where, T c designates temperature in degrees Celsius, μ I s c represents the temperature coefficient for I s c ( A / ∘ C ) , G r e f designates reference irradiance ( 1000 m 2 ) . I s c represents P V cell short-circuit current, G is actual solar irradiance (W/m²) received by the PV cell (W/m²), and T c r e f is the reference temperature (25˚C).

The main objective of the proposed research work is to optimize the performance of a PV system to enhance its output characteristics by employing individual as well as hybrid MPPT algorithms. The optimization techniques employed in this analysis are P&O, PSO, and FL. The optimization techniques are applied both individually and in combination with the hybrid technique that incorporates three MPPT controllers: P&O-PSO-FL. A simulation model was designed using MATLAB/SIMULINK for a standalone PV system that comprises a PV array, DC-DC boost converter, and MPPT controller for power optimization along with various components. Three different MPPT techniques are used for the optimization of this model. Two of these techniques are conventional, while one hybrid method is proposed to analyze the tracking efficiency of the standalone PV system. The block diagram of the standalone PV system is shown in AppendixFigure A2(a), and the flowchart of the generalized MPPT controller is shown in AppendixFigure A2(b).

The proposed analysis assists in selecting the optimal MPPT algorithm for a PV system by evaluating parameters such as power tracking, tracking time, steady state oscillation, energy harvested, and tracking efficiency. By analyzing the results and evaluations of the outputs generated using P&O, PSO, and hybrid (P&O-PSO-FL) optimization algorithms, the most effective optimization approach can be easily determined. This section presents a detailed comparison of the dynamic performance of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controllers under both standard test conditions and shaded conditions. The results demonstrate that the proposed hybrid MPPT controller, which integrates Perturb and Observe (P&O), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC), i.e., (P&O-PSO-FL), consistently outperforms the standalone P&O and PSO techniques. It delivers improved energy harvesting rates, especially under dynamically changing solar irradiance and temperature conditions. As seen in Figure 2, the hybrid controller produces a more stable and higher power output across all test scenarios, including uniform irradiance, step-change drops, and partial shading environments. This aligns with previous findings by Esram and Chapman (2007), who emphasized the limitations of traditional MPPT techniques under rapid environmental fluctuations.

Figure 2 compares the power output of three MPPT techniques: P&O, PSO, and the proposed Hybrid method under dynamic irradiance conditions. The Hybrid controller consistently delivers higher power output with reduced oscillations, indicating better stability and adaptability to environmental changes. Moreover, the energy yield associated with each MPPT method is depicted in Figure 3. Here, the Hybrid technique achieved the highest cumulative energy output, confirming its superior performance in dynamic scenarios. Similar outcomes have been reported in studies comparing hybrid MPPT controllers [15].

Figure 3 compares the energy yield efficiency of three MPPT algorithms: P&O, PSO, and the proposed Hybrid (FLC-supervised) method. The P&O algorithm achieved an energy yield of approximately 91.2%, consistent with its known issues—oscillations near MPP and limited response to partial shading. The PSO

Figure 2.MPPT power output comparison under standard, step-drop, and partial shading conditions.

Figure 3.Energy yield comparison across MPPT techniques.

algorithm reached about 94.5%, performing better due to its ability to conduct global searches even under non-uniform irradiance. The Hybrid MPPT system, which adaptively switches between P&O and PSO using a fuzzy logic controller, achieved the highest yield—98.6%. The improvement of the hybrid approach stems from the FLC’s intelligent decision-making based on real-time ( d P d V ) and ( d P d t ) inputs. This enables swift transitions between local (P&O) and global (PSO) tracking strategies, minimizing power loss. The result validates the research objective to enhance MPPT performance under dynamic conditions—particularly in tropical environments like Nigeria where irradiance fluctuates rapidly. This 3–7% improvement in yield represents significant gains in daily energy output for residential PV systems, improving system ROI and reliability. Voltage stability is another critical performance indicator for MPPT techniques. Figure 4 presents a graphical analysis of the voltage tracking capabilities of the three MPPT methods. The hybrid controller exhibited minimal voltage oscillations and faster stabilization, which is critical for protecting connected loads and enhancing inverter performance.

Figure 4.Voltage tracking stability over time for P&O, PSO, and hybrid MPPT controllers.

Figure 4 illustrates the voltage convergence behavior of three MPPT techniques—P&O, PSO, and the proposed FLC-supervised hybrid system—over a 10-second simulation under dynamic irradiance conditions. The P&O method shows the fastest drop in voltage initially due to its reactive nature. However, this behavior results in undesired oscillations and early stabilization at suboptimal voltage levels (~15 V). This confirms the known drawback of P&O in volatile or shaded environments, where it may stabilize prematurely at a local maximum instead of the true MPPT. PSO begins tracking from a higher initial voltage (~18 V) and converges more slowly but steadily toward the optimal voltage. It avoids sharp fluctuations and gradually stabilizes around 17 V, reflecting its global search capability. The slower convergence, however, can lead to delayed MPP tracking, especially under rapid environmental changes. The hybrid MPPT shows a balanced response, starting around 17.5 V and quickly settling around 17 V, almost matching the PSO steady state but with faster stabilization. This behavior validates the FLC’s ability to dynamically switch between fast (P&O) and robust (PSO) algorithms based on real-time slope ( d P d V ) and rate-of-change (dP/dt). As a result, the hybrid strategy ensures both speed and accuracy, making it ideal for real-time residential PV applications in variable climates. The hybrid controller offers better voltage stability, especially during transitional periods. It reduces energy losses due to oscillations and inefficient convergence. The system adapts efficiently to rapid changes common in tropical environments like Nigeria. These simulation outcomes align with recent advancements in MPPT algorithm optimization, especially under partial shading, as shown by Mahmoud and Ghannam (2017), and Koutroulis et al. (2001). Figure 5 shows the fuzzy membership functions used for the decision-making mechanism in the controller. These were designed based on the ( d P d V ) curve and allow the system to intelligently switch between local and global optimization methods.

Figure 5. Fuzzy membership functions for ( d P d V ) input in MPPT control.

The fuzzy rule base in the proposed Adaptive Control Strategy for a Triple-Hybrid MPPT System serves as the decision-making core that supervises the interaction between the P&O and PSO algorithms. Its primary goal is to dynamically determine which MPPT method—or combination of both—should dominate under varying operating conditions.

The FLC uses two key input variables:

dP/dV (power-voltage gradient): indicates the direction of MPP movement and proximity to the optimal point. dP/dt (rate of power change): reflects the speed and intensity of irradiance variations.

Based on these inputs, the fuzzy rule base evaluates the system state through a set of if–then rules, such as:

If(|dP/dV| is small) and (|dP/dt| is low), then use P&O mode for fine-tuning near the MPP. If (|dP/dV| is large) and (|dP/dt| is high), then activate PSO mode for global search under rapidly changing or partially shaded conditions. If(|dP/dV| is moderate) and (|dP/dt| is medium), then use a weighted combination of P&O and PSO to ensure smooth transition and stability.

In essence, the fuzzy rule base mimics expert reasoning: it assesses both the gradient and the dynamic behavior of power output to select or blend control strategies adaptively. This ensures fast convergence, minimal oscillation, and robust tracking of the global MPP even under fluctuating tropical irradiance conditions.

Figures 6-10 are the graph profiles introduced due to the environmental and electrical behavior of the PV system under varying conditions. They are placed at the beginning to establish baseline operating characteristics and simulation inputs.

Figure 6. Irradiance vs. time.

Figure 7. Temperature vs. time.

Figure 8.Voltage vs. time.

Figure 9.Current vs. time.

Figure 10. Power vs. time.

Figure 11.MPPT Mode vs. time.

Figure 11 indicates the binary plot when the FLC switches between MPPT modes: 0 for P&O and 1 for PSO. The system begins with mode 0 (P&O), benefiting from fast response during steady conditions. At various times, the mode switches to 1 (PSO) in response to dynamic changes in power characteristics as indicated by ( d P d V ) and ( d P d t ) . The frequency and duration of PSO engagement correspond with rapid irradiance or load fluctuations. The switching behavior confirms the intelligent adaptability of the triple-hybrid system. It also highlights the efficiency of FLC in decision-making, avoiding unnecessary PSO calls during

Figure 12. Reference voltage (Vref) vs. time.

stable states. This mode switching underlines the proposed system’s robustness in real-time PV operation, outperforming standalone or dual MPPT designs.

Figure 12 shows the reference voltage as dictated by the MPPT algorithms (either P&O or PSO) over time. Initially, the reference voltage fluctuates as the controller seeks the MPP. As the system stabilizes, voltage changes become smoother, indicating successful tracking of the MPP. Sudden voltage adjustments correspond with MPPT mode switching or significant environmental shifts. The reference voltage is the target for the boost converter’s operation. Accurate reference voltage ensures the DC-DC converter outputs the appropriate voltage for maximum power extraction. The plot reflects controller responsiveness to conditions and validates the design logic embedded in the FLC supervisory structure.

Figure 13. Tracking efficiency vs. time.

Figure 14. Vref vs. MPPT mode.

Figures 13-14 analyze how the hybrid MPPT controller responds in real time. This section validates the adaptive decision-making of the FLC between P&O and PSO. Discuss switching behavior, stability, and controller performance. The integration of three algorithms—FLC, P&O, and PSO—increases the overall computational load compared to conventional single-method MPPTs. Real-time execution on low-cost microcontrollers may require careful optimization or simplification of the fuzzy rule base and PSO parameters to maintain acceptable sampling and response times. In addition, the performance of the FLC depends strongly on the accurate design of its membership functions and rule sets, while PSO efficiency relies on proper selection of the inertia weight and acceleration coefficients. Inadequate tuning of these parameters could lead to slower convergence or oscillatory behavior under rapidly changing environmental conditions.

Figure 15. Temporal power rate ( d P d t ) vs. time.

The ( d P d t ) plot shows how quickly the power is changing over time—a measure of transient response to environmental variations (Figure 15). A high ( d P d t ) is observed at the start and during major irradiance or temperature shifts. The signal stabilizes during steady-state conditions, indicating that the power output becomes stable. High values of ( d P d t ) trigger the fuzzy logic controller to switch from P&O to PSO, aiming to quickly re-locate the MPP during disturbances. The adaptive controller benefits from this input to maintain high tracking efficiency in environments like tropical climates, where irradiance is highly variable.

Figure 16. d P d V vs time.

Figure 17. Power slope ( d P d V ) vs. voltage.

Figure 16 illustrates the gradient of the power-voltage curve ( d P d V ) , a critical indicator for determining the system’s position relative to the maximum power point (MPP). At the beginning of the simulation, ( d P d V ) exhibits rapid changes, indicating that the system is away from the MPP. As time progresses, the gradient approaches zero, showing that the controller is gradually converging towards the MPP. Small fluctuations around zero suggest slight oscillations typical of P&O control when near MPP. This behavior validates the role of ( d P d V ) in monitoring the power slope, as shown in Figure 17, helping the FLC decide whether to continue with local search (P&O) or initiate a global search (PSO). The transient peaks align with irradiance and temperature fluctuations simulated in earlier plots, highlighting real-world dynamic response. The above plots evaluate real-time decision inputs for FLC switching logic and demonstrate how sudden environmental variations are detected.

Figures 18-20 represent the statistical plot validation of MPPT controller performance, discussing clustering of high-power states, frequency of each algorithm use, and overall efficiency gains. The Tracking Efficiency Distribution of P&O, PSO, and (P&O-PSO-Fuzzy) controller provides crucial insight into the robustness and reliability of an MPPT controller in a standalone PV system. The efficiency of the hybrid (P&O-PSO-FL) controller was investigated through the tracking output power, tracking time, and energy harvested by the PV system. The controller provides a tracked output power of 96.2 W with a tracking time of 1.3 seconds, and a harvested energy of 27.2 J. Additionally, (P&O-PSO-FL) controller shows narrow distribution with a high average value of 98.6%, reflecting good MPPT performance. The results of Table 3 confirmed improved efficiency of the triple-hybrid MPPT controller compared with the individual controllers. This combination significantly boosts power extraction, making it an excellent choice for optimizing (maximizing) solar energy extraction.

Figure 18. Histogram of output power.

Figure 19. MPPT mode frequency count.

Figure 19 presents the MPPT mode frequency count, illustrating how often each control method (P&O, PSO, and the hybrid approach) was engaged during the simulation. The hybrid controller recorded the highest mode activation frequency, confirming its dominant role in maintaining optimal tracking under dynamic irradiance conditions. This distribution validates the adaptive nature of the proposed MPPT strategy.

Figure 20. Tracking efficiency distribution.

Figure 20 illustrates the tracking efficiency distribution for the three MPPT techniques evaluated in this study. The hybrid P&O-PSO-FL controller displays the narrowest high-efficiency cluster, with most data points concentrated near 98.6%, while P&O and PSO show wider spreads at lower efficiency levels. This confirms the proposed hybrid algorithm’s superior search accuracy and reduced oscillatory losses across varying irradiance conditions.

Table 3. Summarizes the numerical performance results of the MPPT techniques under dynamic conditions.

The P&O controller produced an output power of 88.5W with an efficiency of 91.2%. However, P&O has its limitations, including fluctuations around the MPP and a relatively slow response to dynamic conditions. On the other hand, the PSO MPPT controller produced an output power of 91.8 W with an efficiency of 94.5%. In contrast to P&O, this control strategy’s convergence accuracy increased significantly. The results demonstrate that PSO is highly effective for global optimization and avoids becoming trapped in local minima. Comparing the performance of these individual MPPT controllers, the P&O controller provides low efficiency and is also limited by fluctuations around the MPP. In addition, the PSO controller offers better accuracy in convergence and effectively avoids local minima with high efficiency. It has been observed that hybrid MPPT controllers offer better power extraction performance compared to individual methods. For instance, the triple-hybrid MPPT controller achieved the highest performance, with an output power of 96.2 W and an efficiency of 98.6%. It demonstrated exceptional efficiency by combining the strengths of three different classes of MPPT controllers: P&O (conventional), PSO (nature-inspired), and FL (intelligent). This superior performance underscores the potential of hybrid techniques for maximizing energy extraction in PV systems. Overall, this research confirms that hybrid MPPT controllers, particularly the P&O-PSO-FL technique, offer the highest efficiency and performance for PV systems. While conventional and intelligent control methods are useful, hybrid techniques (P&O-PSO-FL) provide the best solution for optimizing power extraction and system performance. These attributes make it particularly suitable for residential solar photovoltaic applications, where variability in weather and load can affect energy reliability.

The proposed study demonstrates that hybrid MPPT controllers significantly enhance power tracking efficiency, stability, and overall performance in PV systems. Among the tested controllers, the triple-hybrid P&O-PSO-FL MPPT controller achieved the highest efficiency of 98.6%, outperforming individual controllers. The individual MPPT controllers P&O and PSO exhibited efficiencies of 91.2% and 94.5%, respectively. It was observed that while individual and dual hybrid controllers demonstrated good tracking performance, they produced fluctuations at the output. The P&O-PSO-FL controller also achieved the fastest convergence speed, just 1.3 seconds, a significantly quicker response compared with other methods. Furthermore, it minimized steady-state oscillations, reducing energy losses and ensuring stable power output. The superior tracking accuracy and efficiency of the P&O-PSO-FL hybrid MPPT make it an ideal solution for PV systems, ensuring optimized energy utilization and improved system reliability. These findings highlight the potential of hybrid MPPT approaches in enhancing PV system performance, offering faster convergence, greater stability, and reduced power losses. This research work contributes to the development of more resilient and efficient solar energy systems, supporting the growing demand for renewable energy. This study reinforces solar energy’s critical role in sustainable energy solutions, paving the way for more advanced and adaptive MPPT strategies in future PV applications.

Figure A1. Single Diode PV Model. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1C_qEOzmm73FfNKbB9BuLIHtVr8EFJOXY/view?usp=drivesdk

Figure A2. (a) Block diagram of a standalone PV system. (b) Flow diagram of an MPPT controller. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QxJdeIW1lZnSt1T868lWd3zWg74Daa0F/view?usp=drivesdk

Figure A3. Flowchart for the P&O MPPT control algorithm. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kEuWremUaneNctRGmFBUGEcxW5QTqNnM/view?usp=drivesdk

Figure A4. PSO algorithm flowchart. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Mh6dIQVErF5zz7Lx_dVj3b6gbAVOOfIO/view?usp=drivesdk