Reactive Power Compensation in a Photovoltaic Grid Tie System, Using a Single-Phase Bidirectional High Frequency link Converter

This paper introduces the study of a single phase bidirectional high frequency link converter for photovoltaics applications in grid tie systems, based in the Push-Pull topology. The main advantages of high frequency link converters are: the low cost and high power density of the transformers, and the capacity to provide galvanic isolation between the photovoltaic panels and the grid. Furthermore, the capability to manage bidirectional power flow from the electric grid to the dc source allows adding the capability to compensate reactive power in the system using the same circuit. On the other hand, the sizing of the passive elements is explained. Proper operation of the proposed system has been validated through simulation results, showing that the injection of photovoltaic power to the mains and reactive power compensation are being carried out at the same time.