GaN Quad-Active-Bridge Converter for Hybrid PV-Battery Systems

The project addresses critical challenges related to the increasing global energy demand and the limitations of aging electrical infrastructures. It focuses on improving energy management through innovative technologies that facilitate the integration and synergy of renewable energy sources, energy storage, and electric vehicles, thereby enhancing grid resilience and energy efficiency. Specifically, the project develops a four-port bi-directional power converter with galvanic isolation using advanced wide bandgap semiconductor technologies coupled with an ultra-compact high-frequency multi-winding transformer to efficiently connect distributed solar power, energy storage systems, electric vehicle charging stations, and the utility grid. This approach offers a modular, scalable, power dense, and high-efficiency solution for managing diverse energy sources and loads. During the first phase, the four-port converter was designed, utilizing advanced semiconductor technologies and a high-frequency transformer. Overall electrothermal simulations under various operating modes and prototypes of the high-frequency multi-winding transformer were implemented to demonstrate the feasibility of achieving ultra compactness and high efficiency. The second phase will focus on refining the multiport converter design to manage higher power capacities, scalabilities, enhancing efficiency, and preparing the technology for commercial deployment. The technology is prepared to significantly impact energy management in buildings and hybrid power systems aiming for net zero energy. It promises to lower energy costs, improve electrical grid reliability, and reduce dependency on fossil fuels, contributing to economic savings and environmental sustainability.