Design of a Low Voltage DC microgrid based on renewable energy to be applied in communities where grid connection is not available

Abstract

This article compares different topologies for Low Voltage DC networks that might be used in the electrification process of communities without access to electricity. These type of networks usually include distributed generation (mainly PV), energy storage (batteries) and loads in several houses. Currently, these grids are being built isolated from the AC network and without including any power converter to control the power flow. A comparison between the typical converterless approach and three alternative topologies is developed, one including a DC/DC converter connected to the central battery, another including converters connected to the PV generation systems, and a third one including converters connected to each generation and storage system.

This article compares different topologies for Low Voltage DC networks that might be used in the electrification process of communities without access to electricity. These type of networks usually include distributed generation (mainly PV), energy storage (batteries) and loads in several houses. Currently, these grids are being built isolated from the AC network and without including any power converter to control the power flow. A comparison between the typical converterless approach and three alternative topologies is developed, one including a DC/DC converter connected to the central battery, another including converters connected to the PV generation systems, and a third one including converters connected to each generation and storage system.

Peer Reviewed

Postprint (published version)