Multi-Input High Step-Up DC-DC Converter with Independent Control of Voltage and Power for Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems

In this article, a new nonisolated multi-input step-up converter is presented. By implementing a new switching algorithm in the proposed topology, the converter output voltage, as well as the power absorbed from each source, can be controlled independently, resulting in a simple controller, which is a distinctive virtue for this converter in comparison to similar multi-input converters. Current sharing between various sources is achieved independently. There is no need to control the different parameters of switches' gate-source voltage, such as the delay between switches, and thus, independent maximum power point tracking algorithm can be used for each input source. Providing soft-switching condition and transferring power from all inputs to the load independently are the other features of this converter. Operating modes of the converter as well as experimental results obtained for a 300-W prototype for supplying stand-alone load are presented.