Linear PV DC Network Architecture for Multi-Point AC Grid Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The expansion of solar power in renewable energy requires large land areas, leading to conflicts with agricultural land and biodiversity, necessitating the use of alternative, ecologically acceptable surfaces for high-power photovoltaic installations, and there is a need for an optimized electrical architecture to connect these installations to existing electricity infrastructure while providing system services.
Innovation Solution
An electrical architecture comprising linear photovoltaic installations connected through a DC network with bidirectional voltage source converters to an AC network, allowing for efficient power injection and absorption, and incorporating control systems to manage power distribution based on AC network requirements, with multilevel modular converters for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If large ground areas are used for PV solar plants, then high power generation is achieved, but land usage conflicts with agricultural land and biodiversity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional ground-mounted PV plants occupying large horizontal areas to linear PV installations that utilize vertical or linear spaces along existing infrastructure such as highways, railways, and waterways. This dimensional change allows high-power generation to be achieved without consuming agricultural land, as the PV panels are installed in linear corridors rather than expansive ground areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear PV installations serve multiple functions: they generate electricity along linear infrastructure corridors while simultaneously utilizing already-developed spaces (highway verges, railway embankments, waterway banks) that would otherwise remain underutilized. This multi-functionality allows the same space to serve both transportation/utility purposes and renewable energy generation without conflicting with agricultural land use.
2Area of stationary object
If linear PV installations are implemented, then land usage conflicts are reduced, but electrical network integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linear PV installation is divided into multiple independent PV groups distributed along the linear corridor, each connected to the DC network through modular DC/DC converters. This segmentation allows each module to operate independently and be integrated into the existing AC network at different points, reducing the overall integration complexity compared to a single large-scale connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a DC network with DC/DC converters as an intermediary layer between the distributed PV groups and the AC transmission network. This intermediary DC layer simplifies the integration process by providing a common platform for connecting multiple PV groups, which then connects to the AC network through voltage source converters, reducing the overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple VSC converters are used for AC network connection, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage source converters are designed with bidirectional power flow capability and dynamic control systems that can adapt to varying AC network requirements. The control system dynamically adjusts the power injection or absorption based on real-time network conditions, providing flexibility in power distribution while managing system complexity through intelligent control rather than hardware multiplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes parameter changes in the VSC converters, particularly the ability to operate at different power levels (from 0 to greater than 100% of PV production) and to switch between injecting and absorbing power. This parameter flexibility allows the same converter infrastructure to serve multiple functions and adapt to different network conditions without requiring additional hardware.
4Reliability
If bidirectional power flow is enabled, then AC network support services are improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor AC network conditions and adjust the power flow bidirectionally accordingly. The converters can detect network needs (such as frequency or voltage deviations) and automatically respond by injecting or absorbing power, providing reliability services while managing control complexity through automated feedback loops rather than manual intervention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces the footprint and building of new infrastructure, increases the integration of renewable energy, improves network reliability and resilience, stabilizes the AC network, and simplifies energy management by enabling efficient power distribution and storage integration.
Implementation Method 1
at least one linear installation comprising at least one group of photovoltaic (PV) panels, configured to produce a maximum total power P
Data Source
AI summary
An architecture with at least one PV linear installation with a DC network and in interconnecting this subassembly, at at least two distinct interconnection points, with a preferably existing AC electricity network. Each interconnection point to a node of the AC network is a voltage source converter VSC that is able to inject from 0 to 100% of the maximum power P of the PV linear installations.