Bidirectional inverter with improved light load efficiency for integration in a hybrid AC/DC distribution system in buildings
Alshammari, Meshari
Alshammari, Meshari
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Identifiers
http://hdl.handle.net/10379/17715
https://doi.org/10.13025/17220
https://doi.org/10.13025/17220
Repository DOI
Publication Date
2023-03-28
Type
Thesis
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Abstract
Increasingly more research is being done on DC distribution systems with the aim of increasing system efficiency for power delivery between DC power sources, loads, and energy storage equipment as compared to AC distribution. When compared to a traditional AC system in such circumstances, the DC distribution system is preferable for residential use since it offers inherent benefits over the latter. These include increased efficiency and dependability, as well as the simplicity of integrating batteries and renewable energy sources. Residential building energy efficiency must be improved to optimize solar PV energy utilization since PVs and energy storage may not be available in winter and autumn months, when residential load demand is high. In such cases, grid power is necessary to meet electricity demand. Thus, a bidirectional inverter is introduced to interface between the DC distribution system and the utility grid and deliver energy to meet demands and sell surplus PV power. However, it is found that the low operating power of a bidirectional inverter causes significant losses when grid power is provided. Therefore, energy savings are possible for the DC distribution system, particularly under light-load conditions. Its efficiency at light-load is notably low, which has received considerable attention since it ultimately recovers the initial investment in the DC distributed system and reduces the cost of grid power. Therefore, this thesis demonstrates a light-load-efficient solution to the challenges that limit the efficiency of bidirectional inverters in DC distribution systems. Particularly, the design of the bidirectional inverter solution is focused on light-load with power levels of 5 kW and voltages of 380 V. The proposed solution (bidirectional synchronous H6) topology permits AC-DC converters to operate efficiently at low power with a high DC bus voltage distribution system and integrate with the utility grid. The synchronous H6 inverter could increase the efficiency of DC distribution systems. This bidirectional synchronous H6 inverter is also applicable for low-power applications.
Publisher
NUI Galway