This paper proposes a novel single-phase micro-inverter fit to process the power of two photovoltaic (PV) modules; in a modular way. The proposed topology combines a full bridge inverter integrated with two DC-DC boost converters, in addition to a DC link consists of switched capacitor (SC) networks. The operating modes of the proposed topology are illustrated. The voltage stress of all components is identified. A modulation technique along with a control system are developed for proper operation of the proposed topology. A comparative study with other topologies is introduced and shows the following merits for the proposed one: 1) the power of two PV modules can be harvested individually or simultaneously without any circulating current issues, 2) very high gain can be acquired; thus no series connection of PV modules is required for grid-tie applications, 3) Transformer-less operation, 4) multi-level shaping of the output voltage; thus reduced filter size is required, and 5) self-balancing for the DC-link capacitors; thus simple control systems can be used. The performance of the 7-level version of the proposed topology is validated using real-time simulation and experimental prototype under grid-tie and stand-alone conditions, respectively

Impedance source inverters have proven single-stage power conversion with reduced components compared with two-stage inverters. Single-phase split-source inverters (SSI) are attractive topologies with boost capability as well as few component counts. A simplified SSI (S3I) has been presented for eliminating the diodes from traditional SSls. However, the S3I requires the control of several quantities, which makes the classical control more complex and challenging to design. Therefore, a model predictive controller (MPC) is proposed in this paper for S31 inverters in photovoltaic (PV) applications to control multiple objectives with a simplified design procedure. The obtained results verify the fast-tracking ability, the simple design, and the control of multiple objectives simultaneously.

The transition to clean photovoltaic sustainable generation sources has motivated several developments in required power electronics interface systems. The conventional solution is based on two cascaded conversion stages, leading to reduced efficiency, inevitable leakage currents, and/or a high number of required components. Another solution is the use of integrated two-stage solutions suffering from asymmetrical switch structures, discontinuous input side currents, and/or complex modulation and control requirements. This paper presents a modified configuration with symmetrical six switches based on the common ground boost inverter solution. Furthermore, the proposed solution presents a continuous input side current and a simple modulation strategy. Moreover, the proposed CG topology offers a reduction of the current stress on the power switch by diverting the load current away from the power switch during the inductor charging. The operation, modulation, and control of the developed solution are presented in the paper, including comprehensive performance comparisons with boost inverter solutions in the literature. Simulation and experimental prototype-based results confirm the advantages and superiority of the proposed topology over existing topologies.