Performance and Analysis of PWM Strategy with PV-Based Multilevel Hybrid Inverter

Abstract

The increasing demand for renewable energy sources has led to significant advancements in power electronics, particularly in the development of multilevel inverters. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) strategies implemented in a photovoltaic (PV)-based multilevel hybrid inverter. The integration of PV systems with multilevel inverters offers a promising solution to enhance the efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems. This study explores various PWM techniques, including Sinusoidal PWM (SPWM), Space Vector PWM (SVPWM), and Selective Harmonic Elimination PWM (SHEPWM), focusing on their performance in terms of total harmonic distortion (THD), switching losses, and overall efficiency. A detailed simulation model of the PV-based multilevel hybrid inverter is developed using MATLAB/Simulink to evaluate the performance of different PWM strategies under varying operating conditions. The hybrid inverter topology combines the advantages of cascaded H-bridge and flying capacitor multilevel inverters, providing improved voltage levels and reduced harmonic content. The simulation results demonstrate that the SHEPWM strategy offers the lowest THD, while SVPWM provides a good balance between efficiency and switching losses. Moreover, this paper discusses the impact of environmental factors such as irradiance and temperature on the performance of the PV system and the hybrid inverter. The experimental validation of the simulation results is conducted using a laboratory-scale prototype, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed PWM strategies in real-world applications. The findings highlight the potential of PV-based multilevel hybrid inverters in enhancing the performance and reliability of solar power systems, paving the way for their wider adoption in renewable energy applications.