Comprehensive review of PV/EV/grid integration power electronic converter topologies for DC charging applications

In recent years, there has been great interest in the research and development of electric vehicles (EVs). In the past 5 years, numerous EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have been introduced in the market by auto manufacturers. However, with the increase in demand of EVs/PHEVs comes the need to provide charging facilities at convenient locations, for recharging of the on-board batteries. Fast charging is also a necessity for consumer convenience. Therefore, off-board charging infrastructures have to be looked at closely. This need for fast charging is creating a shift in EV charger development work to focus on DC charging facilities. This paper provides an overview of various power converter topologies used for a photovoltaic (PV) and grid connected DC charging infrastructures. Specific focus is placed on Z-source converters that can be used for a single-stage connection of PV, grid, and EV. PWM control techniques for off-board converters are also reviewed in this paper.