A High-Power-Density DC–DC Converter for Distributed PV Architectures

In order to maximize the solar energy harvesting capabilities, power converters for photovoltaic (PV) systems have to be designed for high efficiency, accurate maximum power point tracking (MPPT), and voltage/current performance. When many converters are used in distributed PV systems, power density also becomes an important factor since it allows for simpler system integration. In this paper, a high-power-density string-level MPPT dc-dc converter suitable for distributed medium- to large-scale PV installations is presented. A simple partial power processing topology that is implemented exclusively with silicon carbide devices provides high efficiency and high power density. A 3.5-kW, 100-kHz converter is designed and tested to verify the proposed methods.