Hybrid MPPT optimization for solar powered cascaded DC–DC converters interfaced with grid-connected multilevel inverter

Purpose This papr amis to design and develop a single-phase seven-level multilevel DC link based cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter for grid integrated solar photovoltaic systems using hybrid optimization approach to reduce the voltage ripple and to improve the power quality. Design/methodology/approach A cascaded high gain cubic boost converter with single-input multiple-output converter has been designed to increase solar panel output to eight times. A novel hybrid flying squirrel search optimization– perturb and observe maximum power point tracking (MPPT) approach is exhibited to extract the solar panel’s maximum peak power. A comparison of various available boost converters with the proposed high gain boost converters is provided in detail. The suggested multilevel inverter reduces the number of switches and component count, resulting in lower losses and reduced distortions at the output. Findings The suggested hybrid MPPT optimization approach ensures efficient operation of the controller in varying environmental conditions and maintains stability. The phase-locked loop based synchronization approach is used for the multilevel inverter to ensure a rapid and reliable synchronization between the utility grid and an inverter. Originality/value The outcomes of the simulation indicates total harmonic distortion of a single-phase seven-level suggested multilevel inverter is 3.86% with a fundamental grid current of 4.939A. Thus, it indicates that the overall model performs better, efficient and hence quality of power is improved.