Analysis of Different Multilevel Converter Topologies for Photovoltaic Applications

This project deals with the different topology of multilevel converters, which are suitable for use in medium and high power photovoltaic (PV) applications. Multilevel converters offer several advantages compared to conventional types. These converters will achieve lower total harmonic distortion and better efficiency. Multilevel converters provide high quality output while using the low switching frequency which affects the switching losses, harmonic filters and size of semiconductor switches. This research investigates various topologies of multilevel converter for high power photovoltaic applications and compares their THD, efficiency, number of required semiconductors and other important characteristics. All topologies are simulated using MATLAB/Simulink in the same operating conditions. Finally, the more suitable multilevel topology is selected with respect to the simulation results.