High Efficiency SiC AC Chopper for LV networks

Protection issues in the presence of power electronic converters in smart LV residential networks

“…A simple, low‐cost, low size/weight circuit, which also has a continuous neutral is the AC chopper shown in Figure 9, which was the chosen candidate for the PEC application [14,25].…”

“…This study therefore contains a summary of this study, which looks at existing regulations/standards that apply to domestic customers on LV networks and the main criteria that would affect a generic PEC design. These criteria are then applied to the PEC that is being developed for a UK project [14][15][16], within the context of the UK wiring regulations and standards. A key aim of this study was that the PEC design must not entail any changes to the existing wiring regulations.…”

Thermal aspects of a low cost power electronic converter for high capacity, smart residential distribution networks

“…To satisfy the anticipated energy demand from residential properties up to the year 2050, an 18 kVA power rating has been identified as minimum capacity for the PEC [3]. In addition, the requirements of various network standards and regulations [6,7,8,9] as well as the constraints of the meterbox environment, determines the other main electrical and mechanical operating parameters for the PEC.…”

“…This paper will give a status update on the InnovateUK/EPSRC project "A Low Cost, High Capacity, Smart Residential Distribution Network Enabled by SiC Power Electronics". This work follows on from a previous InnovateUK Feasibility Study which showed that a cost effective solution to capacity problems can be achieved on the existing LV network infrastructure by increasing the local phase voltage to 400 Vthe existing cable is rated at 600V [3]. To step the voltage back down to 230 V at each house, a DNO-owned, low-cost, high-efficiency power electronic converter (PEC) will be installed in the meter-box of the property.…”

“…This system will not only increase network capacity, but also overcome the problem of network over-voltages within a customer's premises caused by a high penetration of DG. The overvoltage problem is mitigated since the PEC can be used to regulate the voltage on the customer side to 230 V. As well as these desirable characteristics the PEC can also enable optimised connections for emerging EV charging, DG and energy storage -the so-called "smart-grid" [3,4,5]. The main objective of the project is the small-scale demonstration of several PECs deployed on part of a residential network.…”