Fully Integrated PV Cell Power Nano-Inverter Using Submicron CMOS Technology

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Power converters are normally connected to Photovoltaic (PV) panels in order to interface with the rest of thepower network. The smallest-accessible building block of the PV panel is called a cell and PV panel outputsmay be connected in series or parallel to achieve higher power/voltage levels. Such power converters arenormally built using discrete power components and are connected to the output of a PV panel or PV strings.One major challenge that prevents energy resources from obtaining their optimum performance is a mismatchbetween the PV panels in a string or between PV cells in a panel. This is caused by differences inmanufacturing processes, different rates of aging/degradation, and other external factors such as temperature, orirradiation level in PV cells. These factors cause a significant degradation of the efficiency, lifetime andperformance of the PV system.Through collaboration with Levven Electronics Ltd, in this research project, power management integratedcircuits (PMIC) are designed to form nano-inverters for PV cells in a PV panel. The PMIC will be fabricated insubmicron CMOS technology and will be the heart of nano-inverters that controls the output power of a singlePV cell. Such integrated power chips will improve overall efficiency, cost, size, and reliability, enabling lowercarbon emissions and smarter use or production of energy. This research project aims at addressing technicalchallenges with this technology, through the development of leading-edge smart microchip integratedtechnologies. This will provide critical support for the research, development, and training in new trends ofdistributed converters systems in smart grids, and generate significant social, health, environmental andeconomic benefits for Canadians.