Abstrak
A Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) is a renewable energy source that converts temperature differences into electrical energy via the Seebeck effect; however, it suffers from low efficiency and unstable power output due to fluctuations in operating temperature. Therefore, a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) method is required to ensure the TEG operates at optimal performance. This study aims to design and simulate an MPPT system using the Perturb and Observe (P&O) method integrated with a Buck converter within a TEG system. A quantitative research method was employed, utilizing MATLAB/Simulink software for simulation. The TEG system was modeled using ten TGM-199-1.4-0.8 modules connected in series, incorporating a look-up table for Seebeck coefficients and internal resistance values that vary dynamically with temperature. Testing was conducted across a hot-side temperature (Th) range of 100°C–200°C with a constant cold-side temperature (Tc) of 30°C, comparing a direct-coupled configuration (without a converter or MPPT) against a system utilizing a Buck converter and P&O-based MPPT. The results indicate that in the direct-coupled configuration, the maximum power output achieved was only 32.96 W at Th = 200°C—far below the TEG's maximum potential power of 114 W. Upon implementing the P&O MPPT with a Buck converter, the output power increased significantly to 113.77 W under the same temperature conditions, representing an increase of 80.81 W (245.2%). Across all tested temperature variations, the system employing P&O MPPT consistently generated significantly higher power than the direct-coupled system. Thus, it can be concluded that applying the Perturb and Observe MPPT algorithm to a TEG system equipped with a Buck converter effectively enhances power extraction efficiency and maintains system operation near the maximum power point.