DC/DC Modular Multilevel Converters for HVDC Interconnection: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

High voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is a key component in power systems owing to huge benefits such as long-distance power transmission, lower losses, asynchronous grid interconnections, controllability, system availability, and limited short-circuit currents. HVDC transmission is a cost-effective method of transporting huge amounts of power across long distances with little loss. It can also link asynchronous alternative current (AC) networks while balancing the grid. DC/DC converters are one of the most important components for HVDC power transmission, and DC/DC modular multilevel converters (MMCs) are the backbone of HVDC grid interconnections. The DC/DC MMC is a highly regarded converter architecture for medium/high-voltage DC grid interconnection. DC/DC MMC topologies play a key role in modern HVDC networks with varying voltage levels. This paper’s fundamental aim is to offer a recent comprehensive review of HVDC topologies, current DC/DC modular multilevel converter (MMC) topologies for HVDC interconnection, and DC/DC MMC control techniques.