Design and Implementation of a Utility Interactive Converter for Small Distributed Generation

This work describes a 1 kW converter for distributed generation applications. It operates in stand alone mode, and grid connected mode with automatic power flow control. The converter presents three stages: high frequency inverter; bridge rectifier; and low frequency inverter. The converter has galvanic isolation and it operates with DC input voltages between 30V to 60V, providing output voltages at 110V or 240V with 50Hz or 60Hz. Performance parameters such as THD, efficiency, and regulation are evaluated. Experimental results in all operation condition are given and are shown to be excellent. Features like costs, volume, and weight were addressed.