An efficient DC inverter improves the sustainability of microgrids
A new DC-DC power converter developed by Kobe University promises improved energy storage and conversion efficiency and marks an important step in the advancement of microgrid technologies. Designed to integrate seamlessly with various DC energy sources, this new converter improves system stability and simplicity with unprecedented operational efficiency.
Electrical energy is classified into two types: AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). Despite AC being the chosen standard for national electricity grids, the dependence on DC power by solar panels, batteries, electric vehicles and computers makes conversion necessary, often with significant energy losses. The adoption of DC microgrids could mitigate this by connecting renewable energy sources and storage units directly to consumers, eliminating the need for conversion and enabling voltage flexibility essential for diverse applications.
Researchers from Kobe University and National Chung Hsing University, including MISHIMA Tomokazu and LAI Ching-Ming, have led the development of this technology. “Our interdisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art facilities have supported our success in developing a prototype that exhibits significant advantages over existing systems,” explains LIU Shiqiang, a student team member at Kobe University.
The new design, published in the journal IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, optimizes the voltage ratio and current balance of the inductor, improving performance for electric vehicle-oriented applications. “The asymmetric load limit control is especially beneficial for electric vehicle-connected DC microgrids,” Liu added.
The effectiveness of the prototype, which shows an efficiency of up to 98.3%, underlines its potential for real-world application and sets the stage for further improvements and commercialization efforts from UPE-Japan, a startup based out of Kobe University . “Our goal is to promote the shift to more reliable and sustainable energy solutions, especially for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems,” said Liu.
Research report:More than 98% efficiency SiC MOSFET based four-phase interleaved bidirectional DC-DC converter with wide range voltage ratio
