Enhancing grid‐connected solar PV systems with a novel three‐phase hybrid multilevel inverter

• Published in: International journal of circuit theory and applications Vol. 52; no. 9; pp. 4461 - 4492
• Main Authors: Pushparaj, Nirmal Kumar, Nattamai Balasubramanian, Prakash
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bognor Regis Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.09.2024
• Subjects: Clean energy; Effectiveness; Energy conversion; Inverters; Photovoltaic cells; Power conditioning; Pulse duration modulation; pulse width modulation (PWM); Reactive power; Renewable energy; solar photovoltaic (SPV); space vector (PV); three‐phase hybrid multilevel inverter (TPHMLI); Topology; total harmonic distortion (THD)
• ISSN: 0098-9886; 1097-007X
• DOI: 10.1002/cta.3974

Summary This paper presents a novel three‐phase hybrid multilevel inverter (TPHMLI) designed for grid‐connected solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems. The TPHMLI combines series‐connected bridge topologies of half and full circuits to generate 11 stages of line load voltages, reducing the need for DC sources. It also introduces an improved pulse width modulation (PWM) approach, addressing computational challenges and high‐frequency triggering issues. Practical validation in a laboratory setting demonstrates the MLI's functionality and effectiveness. Furthermore, the advanced MLI topology successfully addresses design issues in grid‐integrated SPV structures, including power quality, efficiency, and reliability. It excels in managing reactive power and fault obstructive capabilities. Extensive simulations using MATLAB/Simulink confirm its superior performance, making it a promising solution for power conditioning units in grid‐connected solar PV systems. This research contributes to clean and sustainable energy conversion technologies, enhancing power quality and cost‐effectiveness, with significant potential for practical applications in the renewable energy sector. The proposed novel three‐phase hybrid multilevel inverter offers distinct advantages compared to conventional approaches. It expands voltage generation capacity by producing 11 stages of line load voltages while reducing reliance on external DC sources. Optimization of pulse width modulation techniques resolves computational complexities and high‐frequency triggering challenges, ensuring seamless operation.