Utility-connected power converter for maximizing power transfer from a photovoltaic source while drawing ripple-free current

This paper presents a power converter for coupling photovoltaic arrays to the utility grid. The converter draws a programmable, ripple-free DC current from the photovoltaic array and injects power into the grid at unity power factor. The programmable input current feature makes this converter ideal for use with maximum power point tracking technology. The proposed converter has an additional unique feature in that the internal dc link carries a large (approximately 25%) ripple voltage. Allowing a large ripple on the DC link reduces the required size of the link capacitor. This paper includes basic system information, analysis of filter requirements, controller design and preliminary hardware results.