Development of Bidirectional Multilevel Converters for Solar Energy Applications

This project addresses the critical need to efficiently integrate energy storage into photovoltaic solar generation systems, as standard conversion hardware does not adequately support battery recharging. The central goal is to design, assemble, and validate a multilevel converter based on the Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) topology, capable of managing the conversion of DC power to grid-injectable AC power while ensuring the load balancing of associated batteries. The methodology involves an exhaustive literature review focusing on IEEE standards for distributed generation and smart grids, evaluating NPC topologies (configurations '1' and 'T'), and proposing novel designs if necessary. Subsequently, simulation analysis will be performed using MATLAB/Simulink to validate the proposed topology and control algorithms. The implementation phase includes designing an experimental prototype, covering the power stage, firing circuits, sensors, and protections, followed by component acquisition and experimental interconnection to the 110V/220V electrical system. Finally, the system will be validated by connecting batteries of different technologies to the DC bus, and the experimental results obtained in the Power Electronics laboratories will be analyzed.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>The main objective is the assembly and testing of a multilevel converter using the Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) topology for solar power generation applications. This includes developing auxiliary circuits for load balancing in storage elements and creating the corresponding control algorithms for the entire proposed system.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Optimization and innovation of energy and renewable energies