Design and Hardware Implementation of an IGBT-Based Half-Bridge Cell for Modular Voltage Source Inverters

This article presents the design and hardware implementation of an IGBT-based half-bridge voltage source inverter (VSI) to be used as a basic cell to assemble VSIs of different topologies in modular ways. Herein, we have presented the design methodology and utilized techniques for reducing stray inductances and EMI radiation on the printed circuit board, as well as the way to calculate and select the main electronic components. For the design of the circuit board, local regulations for grid interconnection and international standards were considered in order to obtain a safe and reliable electronic power cell. The developed hardware was subjected to different tests using AC electric motors as loads to validate its design. Two VSIs topologies were evaluated: a single-phase two-level full-bridge inverter and a three-phase two-level inverter. The experimental results validated the theory and demonstrated the excellent performance, reliability, and high efficiency of the developed half-bridge power cell for modular VSIs.

Electric Power Network Interconnection: A Review on Current Status, Future Prospects and Research Direction

An interconnection of electric power networks enables decarbonization of the electricity system by harnessing and sharing large amounts of renewable energy. The highest potential renewable energy areas are often far from load centers, integrated through long-distance transmission interconnections. The transmission interconnection mitigates the variability of renewable energy sources by importing and exporting electricity between neighbouring regions. This paper presents an overview of regional and global energy consumption trends by use of fuel. A large power grid interconnection, including renewable energy and its integration into the utility grid, and globally existing large power grid interconnections are also presented. The technologies used for power grid interconnections include HVAC, HVDC (including LCC, VSC comprising of MMC-VSC, HVDC light), VFT, and newly proposed FASAL are discussed with their potential projects. Future trends of grid interconnection, including clean energy initiatives and developments, UHV AC and DC transmission systems, and smart grid developments, are presented in detail. A review of regional and global initiatives in the context of a sustainable future by implementing electric energy interconnections is presented. It presents the associated challenges and benefits of globally interconnected power grids and intercontinental interconnectors. Finally, in this paper, research directions in clean and sustainable energy, smart grid, UHV transmission systems that facilitate the global future grid interconnection goal are addressed.

Real Time Load Assessment and Economic Analysis of RES System

Renewable resources are complementary in nature so the weaknesses of one can be overcome with the strength of other. The factors such as climate condition and weather are unpredictable, more for wind than compared to solar sources. The complementary nature of wind and solar sources motivates us to hybrid wind-solar power plant concept. The major problems like environment hazards, depletion of fossil fuels can be overcome by using hybrid power station. With the help of grid interconnection, the energy can be supplied to the remote rural areas and the emission of carbon and other harmful gases can be reduced up to 80% to 90%. This paper focuses on the optimal combination of renewable energy resources that could electrify the area under study. This paper also highlights the village details, energy resources available in region under study and the predicted load assessment. The various power output equations of wind power and solar power has also been discussed. The overview of the Homer software that was used for simulation purposes has also been discussed in this work.