Distributed Converter Modules: Design, Configurations, Aggregated Modeling, and Control

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A nano-grid is a very small scale power distribution system that contains an energy management and power converter system for a set of distributed loads and resources. A smart nano-grid can be as small as a few photovoltaic panels or battery energy storage systems supplying small loads, or as large as a few residential or commercial buildings. This research is focused on the design, modeling and development of distributed high power density converter topologies, architectures, control systems, and energy management strategies specifically suitable for nanogrid applications. The proposed concepts and prototypes will be experimentally tested for real life conditions and industrial codes and regulations using our CFI funded labs to develop industrial level energy system topologies and control solutions for smart nano-grid systems. One of the research program objectives is to design novel smart topologies and configurations such that the nanogrid becomes a modular and plug-and-play system facilitating a gradual expansion of the system proportional to the need and affordability. Novel distributed configurations will be explored to interconnect modular power converters for renewable energy resources, energy storage, distributed loads and grid. System configuration as well as novel distributed control systems ensure seamless operations in stand alone, grid connected, parallel or grid forming modes. Aggregated modeling of distributed converters and control systems will be derived to guarantee system level stability and optimum energy management with minimum communication bandwidth, so that the nanogrid have minimum dependency on the technical staff to construct, expand, and maintain. Such modular renewable nanogrids are specifically beneficial to people with limited budgets or remote and northern First Nations communities. Unlike existing renewable DG systems, the use of this technology in large scale residential applications would also contribute to the support of the grid. Such optimized nanogrid energy solutions will improve overall efficiency, cost, size, reliability, enabling lower carbon emissions, and smarter storage, use of, or production of, energy. The proposed research program will help Canada achieve these goals and contribute to the government's objectives of accelerating the creation of sustainable energy solutions and making Canada a market leader in efficient renewable nanogrids and power electronics based energy system solutions.