Title :
Enhanced Differential Power Processor for PV Systems: Resonant Switched-Capacitor Gyrator Converter With Local MPPT
Author :
Blumenfeld, Alon ; Cervera, Alon ; Peretz, Mor Mordechai
Author_Institution :
Dept. of Electr. & Comput. Eng. Power Electron. Lab., Ben-Gurion Univ. of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
Abstract :
This paper introduces an enhanced differential power processor topology and principle of operation for photovoltaic (PV) systems that is based on switched-capacitor technology, featuring local maximum power point tracking (MPPT) capability, zero current switching, high efficiency over wide-operation range, and reduced size. The new converter operates as a voltage-dependent current-source and is regulated by dead-time or frequency control. Local MPPT on the individual PV elements is realized and the operation is demonstrated by simulation and experiments. Differential power processing operation is verified using 150-W prototypes, demonstrating ultimate improvement in the power harvesting capability of above 90% and up to 99% out of the available power in the string, under different insolation levels.
Keywords :
constant current sources; gyrators; maximum power point trackers; photovoltaic power systems; resonant power convertors; switched capacitor networks; zero current switching; PV elements; PV systems; dead-time; differential power processing operation; enhanced differential power processor topology; frequency control; local MPPT capability; local maximum power point tracking capability; photovoltaic systems; power 150 W; resonant switched-capacitor gyrator converter; switched-capacitor technology; voltage-dependent current-source; zero current switching; Capacitors; Convergence; Maximum power point trackers; Partial discharges; Power electronics; Switches; Zero current switching; Differential power processing; digital control; gyrator; local control; maximum power point tracking (MPPT); photovoltaic power; renewable energy;
Journal_Title :
Emerging and Selected Topics in Power Electronics, IEEE Journal of
DOI :
10.1109/JESTPE.2014.2331277