Wide Bandgap Power Electronic Devices for Constraint Management in Distribution Networks

This paper investigates the value of wide bandgap (WBG) technology in enhancing constraint management in distribution networks. The paper firstly provides a review of existing constraint management technologies. The advantages of power electronic technology over other technologies are highlighted, while the challenges of power electronics that normally use silicon (Si) materials are discussed. To address these challenges, this paper introduces WBG semiconductor technology as an innovative solution. The benefits of WBG power electronics for network constraint management including reduced cost, high energy conversion efficiency and high applicability are then identified. Based on these benefits, their promising applications in constraint management of distribution networks are also summarized.