A Multifunctional Single-Phase Voltage Source Inverter in Perspective of the Smart Grid Initiative

Abstract

The primary goal of this paper is the development of "smart" controls for power electronic inverters capable of interfacing a Distributed Generation (DG) unit to the utility grid. The inverter is designed as a single phase full bridge converter operating at 120 V 60 Hz AC. The "smart" functionalities of the inverter are defined here, in the perspective of the Smart Grid Initiative of the US Department of Energy, as the ability to: supply real power to local loads; supply real power to other utility loads up to the rated capacity of the inverter; provide voltage support at the point of common coupling (PCC); and enable the provision of control options to the consumer based on near real-time electricity information obtained from the utility through advanced metering devices.