Compact Solar Direct-to-Medium-Voltage Grid Interface Using Silicon Carbide and High Frequency Magnetics

Statement of the Problem With costs of solar panels having declined drastically, balance of plant and installation costs represent an increasing proportion of overall solar costs. Central inverters and transformers for utility-scale solar, in addition to their costs, require substantial installation equipment to lift them into place and concrete pad infrastructure to support their weight. Project Objective and Approach This project will develop a compact, lightweight multi-port power converter using wide-band gap semiconductors and high frequency transformers that can interface solar systems directly with medium voltage (MV) grids up to 35 kV. The approach uses a high frequency magnetics link driven by SiC devices along with a novel insulation method to provide power conversion and step-up between a solar DC plant and a medium voltage AC grid. Phase I Work A compact power converter will be developed for interface of utility-scale solar (typically 1500 VDC) to medium voltage grid collection systems (typically 35 kVAC). Selection and testing of key components such as high voltage SiC devices and high frequency magnetic cores will be carried out. Preliminary design of the converter and system simulations will be carried out. Commercialization prospects will be explored with help from the project partner. Commercial Applications and Benefits Benefits of the new power converter system include reduced size and weight, easier integration of energy storage, and improved reliability through the use of modules with redundancy. The technology can also be used in other applications such as electric locomotives, wind turbines, and data center power distribution.