A new configuration of grid‐connected photovoltaic‐based multifunctional power converter for single‐phase system

Abstract

SummaryThe paper presents a new configuration of a grid‐connected converter centering on the needs of voltage‐sensitive nonlinear loads with source current compensation and photovoltaic (PV) power injection capability. The presented system consists of a six‐switch converter, which gives dual single‐phase output. The first output is connected in shunt near the source end to inject PV‐generated power along with the supply of load current harmonics and reactive power. The second output forms a series connection near the load end to protect the voltage‐sensitive nonlinear load from supply‐side voltage variations such as sags and harmonics. The system operation is validated through MATLAB simulation and real‐time simulation using Opal‐RT (OP4510) under different dynamic conditions such as variations in supply voltage, variation in solar irradiance, and load variation which is typically encountered in a modern distribution network. The performance of the proposed multifunctional converter is found to be satisfactory in all operating conditions by meeting the desired PV power injections along with the compensation of sensitive nonlinear load terminal voltage and source current harmonic issues within the standard allowable limit specified by IEEE.