Stability and accuracy evaluation of a power hardware in the loop (PHIL) interface with a photovoltaic micro-inverter

Stability and accuracy of PHIL simulation depends upon the characteristics of the interface between the RTS and the hardware device under test. Even when stable PHIL is achieved, the non-idealities in the PHIL interface introduces inaccuracies in the simulation results. Software models that include representation of the PHIL interface provide a method to evaluate the stability and accuracy of a PHIL interface. In most instances the required parameters and circuit topology of the power devices that are to be tested are unavailable, thus making it difficult to prepare the required software models. This paper will discuss the challenges of evaluating the stability and accuracy of a PHIL simulation with a grid-connected photovoltaic micro-inverter whose parameters and converter topology are unknown.