Modelling and analysis of multi-input multi-output dc-dc converter topology for renewable energy integration.
Ntuli, Mthobisi
Ntuli, Mthobisi
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Abstract
Providing continuous and reliable power is the goal of every energy utility. However, the South African Energy utility has been unable to meet consumer demand resulting in load shedding. These power cuts are attributed to the aging infrastructure of the power utility and its dependence on fossil fuels to generate power. The power cuts have threatened the economy of the country and the stability of the national grid. This prompted the South African Government to draw plans to mitigate this threat. The plan is to introduce large scales of renewable energy sources into the energy mix with the key contributor being solar PV generators. Photovoltaic power generators have been studied extensively and have proven to be a suitable candidate for the replacement of coal-fired power stations due to the many advantages these systems have which include zero carbon emissions, noise-free, no signs of minimal degradation even after prolonged usage, and do not contain any moving parts thus requiring very little maintenance. However, these systems have limitations especially when used as stand-alone systems due to the inherent intermittent nature of PV generators. This feature results in varying output power and excessive frequency deviations which affect the normal operation of the power plant. This problem may be averted by hybridizing PV generators with alternative energy sources such as fuel cells, wind generators and battery storage systems. Recently, fuel cells have received attention as a promising power source for hybridization with PV systems to improve overall system quality and sustainability. This research aims to propose a Multi-input Multi-out DC-DC Converter for hybrid system topology and control to provide a reliable, controllable, and sustainable power supply. This Multi-input Multi-output converter is intended to overcome the problems of intermittent power, which is inherent to PV systems, and to propose an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel power generators. To achieve this, Mathematical descriptions obtained from past studies will be employed for the mathematical models of each of the system components. Computer Software MATLAB/SIMULINK will be utilized to model and simulate the converter for hybrid systems and the control strategy. MATLAB will be used to analyze the total system performance.
Description
Submitted as a partial requirement for the Master’s Degree in Engineering (MEng): Electrical Engineering field of specialization: Power Electronics in the Department of Electrical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, at the Tshwane University of Technology.
Date
2024-04-01
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Tshwane University of Technology
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Keywords
Multi-input, Multi-output, Fuel cells, Photovoltaic generators, Boost-Converter, Buck-converter MATLAB/SIMULINK