Multi-input DC boost converter for grid connected hybrid PV/FC/Battery power system

This paper proposes a new multi-input dc boost converter for grid-connected hybrid Photovoltaic (PV)/Fuel cell (FC)/Battery power system, supplying a residential load. In this structure each switching cycle of proposed boost converter is divided in to five switching periods in comparison with conventional structure. These switching periods introduce five different duty ratios for the proposed boost converter. With utilizing these duty ratios, extracting maximum available PV power, setting FC operation power on optimal range and charging/discharging of battery is possible. For achieving these goals, participation factor of hybrid system (G) is defined to manage the system power flow. Considering the FC optimal operation range, power of PV array and load, different operating modes of system are analyzed. The proposed system has been simulated by PSCAD/EMTDC linked to MATLAB software for different operating modes. The simulation results have shown the performance of the novel structure with desired features.