DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION OF GRID INTERACTIVE INVERTERS FOR MICROGRIDS

Abstract

Distributed generation, also called on-site generation, dispersed generation, embedded generation, decentralized generation, decentralized energy or distributed energy, generates electricity from many small energy sources. Distributed generation reduces the amount of energy lost in transmitting electricity because the electricity is generated very near where it is used, perhaps even in the same building. This also reduces the size and number of power lines that must be constructed. A better way to realize the emerging potential of distributed generation is to take a system approach which views generation and associated loads as a subsystem or a “micro grid”. A grid-interactive inverter (GII) is a special type of inverter that converts DC power to AC power for connection to an existing electrical grid. GIIs are often used to convert DC power produced by renewable energy sources, such as solar arrays or wind turbines, into the AC power used to power homes and businesses.