Abstract:

In this paper, a novel dual-function grid-connected solar inverter is developed for better utility interaction applications. The proposed topology is able to inject active power, reactive power, and mitigate harmonic problems caused by non-linear loads. The proposed configuration consists of switched LC-connected inverter (SLC-CI) in parallel with static VAR compensator (SVC) to achieve the design requirements. The system description, mathematical model, control algorithm, and parameter design of the proposed system is systematically developed to ensure acceptable performance. The system performance is evaluated with both linear and non-linear loads and compared to two conventional topologies; inductive and capacitive grid connected inverters. The results demonstrate that the proposed topology have better performance, comparing to other topologies, in terms of using lower DC-bus voltage (25% less) and using around half the power rating of inverter. Moreover, the proposed double switched LC filter-connected inverter (DSLC-CI) shows its ability to work as active power filter and mitigate harmonics to acceptable level.

Keywords: