A Coordinated Compensation Strategy for Module-Mismatch of CHB-PV Systems Based on Improved LS-PWM and Reactive Power Injection
- Huazhong Univ. of Science and Technology, Hubei (China)
- Siemens Corp., Princeton, NJ (United States)
- Lehigh Univ., Bethlehem, PA (United States)
Here, the cascaded H-bridge (CHB) converter has become a promising candidate topology for utility-scale photovoltaic systems thanks to merits like modular structure, distributed maximum power point tracking (MPPT), and direct distribution grid access without medium-voltage transformers, etc. However, module-mismatches arising from non-ideal elements like partial shading and parameter variations pose a technical challenge for such systems. If not dealt with properly, module-mismatches can lead to adverse effects like unbalanced dc-link voltages of the modules, distortion of grid current, reduced power generation, etc. Conventional methods, such as reactive power compensation and level-shifted pulse-width modulation (LS-PWM) based compensation, can alleviate this issue, but their performances are still limited by the allowable modulation range of power converters. In this paper, a compensation strategy combining reactive power compensation with a novel modulation method is proposed to extend the operating range in terms of module mismatch. Experimental results on a 2.4kW/208V single-phase setup are presented and have demonstrated that the proposed method can not only ride through a larger range of module-mismatches but also improve solar power utilization and system efficiency owing to reduced switching events, non-compromised MPPT, and less required reactive power.
- Research Organization:
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Electricity (OE)
- Grant/Contract Number:
- AC05-00OR22725
- OSTI ID:
- 1461674
- Journal Information:
- IEEE Translations on Industrial Electronics, Vol. 66, Issue 4; ISSN 0278-0046
- Publisher:
- IEEECopyright Statement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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