This paper proposes a new type of variable fractional-order incremental conductance algorithm (VFOINC), combined with extenics variable step size (EVSS) control into the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) design for photovoltaic power systems. At the beginning of maximum power tracking, the fractional-order number is selected as 1; the good transient tracking characteristic of traditional incremental conductance method is used. When the maximum power point is approached, the fractional-order number is selected as variable fractional order; the curve profile of in fractional order is used to approximate, so that the system has good tracking effect in transient and steady states. The experimental and simulation results show that, compared with traditional incremental conductance method (INC) and fractional-order incremental conductance method (FOINC), this method has better MPPT effect.
