Design of a Cell String Level Maximum Power Point Tracking Converter connected to a DC Grid
Foundation⁰ is thrilled to co-present new research on enhancing photovoltaic panel efficiency in partially shaded conditions, such as on the deck of a sailing yacht.
Design of a Cell String Level Maximum Power Point Tracking Converter connected to a DC Grid
L. I. Gorostidi, J. Echeverry, H. L. Moens, B. van Someren and L. Mackay, “Design of a Cell String Level Maximum Power Point Tracking Converter Connected to a DC Grid,” 2024 IEEE Sixth International Conference on DC Microgrids (ICDCM), Columbia, SC, USA, 2024, pp. 1-7, doi: 10.1109/ICDCM60322.2024.10665273.
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The white paper presents a novel control strategy to manage a two-step MPPT conversion process. The design uses string-level converters, which adjust to localised shading conditions to maintain optimal power output, connected to a second isolated converter to step up the voltage for integration into a bipolar DC grid. The use of gallium nitride (GaN) transistors further enhanced the system’s efficiency.
The experimental results show up to a threefold increase in power generation compared to traditional optimisers, making this a promising solution for the deployment of photovoltaic arrays which may encounter unpredictable partial shading patterns. Foundation⁰ remains committed to sharing cutting-edge projects like this, which drive sustainable energy innovation in challenging settings.
