A lack of standardized low-cost power converter units (PCUs) for distributed energy resource (DER) systems inhibits the development of commercial mass markets. Present designs are costly, application specific, and use discrete components. To overcome this problem, this project will develop PCUs based on Power Electronic Building Block, (PEBB) modules. These units would be able to interface with most types of electrical power sources and be converted to desired output voltage and power, depending upon the needs of system integrators and PCU manufacturers. Phase I will design, develop, and manufacturer a family of PEBB modules that would constitute a new generation of power converter units, i.e., PCUs that are PEBB-module-based for the DER application. The power-source characteristics of various power sources (such as photovoltaics, micro-turbines, and fuel cells) will be identified so that a family of standard PEBB modules could be developed for DER System Integrators and PCU manufacturers.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This project should result in low cost, reliable, and high performance PEBB based PCUs. The commercialization of PEBB modules and PEBB-module-based PCUs should create both a supplier base and a user market that will open up the possibilities of large scale production of DER systems.
