First experimental demonstration of solid state circuit breaker (SSCB) using 650V GaN-based monolithic bidirectional switch

Renewable and other distributed energy resources feed electricity to the utility grid and/or local loads through interfacing power electronic converters. These new microgrids are susceptible to short circuit faults, mandating the use of protective circuit breakers. Solid state circuit breakers (SSCB) are needed due to their much faster response than mechanical circuit breakers. This unique application offers a great market opportunity for normally-on WBG switches. This paper, for the first time, experimentally demonstrates the feasibility of using 650V GaN bidirectional devices in SSCB applications.