Integrated DC/DC parallel PnP PV architecture method for powering residential buildings

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel integrated plug and play (PnP) DC/DC parallel PV architecture for powering residential buildings. The scheme is based on low cost PV converters (first stage) integrated into one mechanical enclosure along with a second stage grid tied centralized inverter or converter in the case of DC powered applications. The technique limits the requirements of the first stage converters to operation in the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) while supporting power curtailment. All communications to the grid or to other applications are proposed to be provided by the said centralized inverter or converter. Furthermore, a novel approach to improve the racking installation time is also proposed in this paper. The outcome of the said configuration as well as the proposed racking improvement method is a lower cost and simpler to implement PnP system. System configuration and the proposed improved racking installation diagrams as well as experimental results are illustrated in this paper.