Advanced Semiconductor Technology for Alternate Energy Sources - D-C to A-C Inverters.

摘要

Alternate or advanced energy conversion methods frequently require d-c to a-c conversion since the energy output must be synchronized with an existing utility grid. The objective of this paper is to describe various preliminary system concepts for interfacing advanced solid-state energy converters to the utility grid with a significant potential for reducing initial capital investment. Recent ERDA sponsored studies have identified the solid-state d-c to a-c inverter as a key element for further development. These studies indicated that an inverter synchronized to the utility grid can directly transform solar photovoltaic array generated energy to local load (residence) demand with any excess energy feedback to the utility grid. Where the solar energy is insufficient to supply the local load, it is supplemented by the utility grid. Several key issues were identified in the referenced studies. One of these involved the considerable weight and cost associated with the d-c to a-c Inverter/Transformer vs a Transformerless Inverter that would have 'Float' with respect to the power grid return. This paper addresses this issue as well as the anticipated solution to the problem using advanced semiconductor technology.