Thermal Performance Evaluation of 1500-VDC Photovoltaic Inverters Under Constant Power Generation Operation

Abstract

The technology shift from 1000-V to 1500-V DC voltage can reduce the installation cost of Photovoltaic (PV) systems to a large extent. However, the increased DC-link voltage also imposes a challenge to PV inverters, and thus, it requires careful consideration in the design phase and the control in operation. In this context, this paper evaluates the thermal performance of two-level and three-level 1500-VDC single-stage PV inverters under constant power generation (CPG) operation. A 160-kW PV system and its operating conditions have been defined for comparison. Three IGBT modules from a leading manufacturer have been selected for different inverter topologies. The thermal performance evaluation of the 1500-VDC PV inverters under CPG operation conditions has been carried out through PLECS modeling. This evaluation can be used for topology and component selection of 1500-VDC PV inverters and improving their operation with better thermal performance.