An integrated photovoltaic (PV) power tracker interface for modular medium voltage step-up power conversion

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The proposed collaborative research project with Northern Transformer Corporation is to develop a new, highly compact photovoltaic (PV) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) power interface with active power compensation technology for use in large-scale PV energy conversion systems. To be specific, the proposed MV PV power interface will be capable of simultaneously providing accurate large-scale PV MPPT function and injecting active or reactive power to the MV grid with fault-ride-through feature. The proposed PV power interface can be integrated with the step-up medium voltage (MV) power conversion stage to form a single-stage MV PV step-up power conversion system. The novelty of the proposed technology lies in the unique circuit structure of the PV energy MPPT power interface and the multi-functional control features of the proposed active power compensation scheme. Successful development of this technology will result in a highly compact single-stage PV power conversion process that achieves very high power efficiency for the entire operating range while at the same time, provides power compensation for the grid with varying solar irradiation at the input. The Head of Research from Northern Transformer will provide technical expertise on addressing these design challenges to help the team to achieve the project goal. Northern Transformer is keen to develop the proposed PV power solution to replace the conventional MV pad mount transformer for connecting the renewable energy source to the grid, as it will result in a significant reduction of cost and size as well as increased reliability. The research outcomes will increase the affordability and growth of more efficient and clean renewable energy systems. Such growth will lead to significant reductions in GHG, improved environment, affordable electricity and better health of Canadians.