Wide power control of high-gain and compact quasi Z-source inverter in remote and sustainable solar water pumping system

Abstract

In a solar water pumping system, the solar energy-driven AC induction motor needs an enhanced boost inverter to support low-power operation for a wide range of operations. In this regard, a novel high-gain active-switched-capacitor quasi-Z-source inverter (HG-ASCqZSI) is suggested for a PV source-based pump-motor unit’s broad range of functions by doubling the voltage gain and also by empowering its low power handling capability. The recommended single-stage boost inverter is excellent for distant locations since it is compact (single inductor) and also provides double DC-side voltage gain and low power operations. The improved performances (reduced torque and speed ripple, and reduced THD of current) of the electric drive are obtained in low power conditions by providing anti-parallel switches across the diodes of the switched capacitor unit of the proposed inverter. Techno-economic analysis on the proposed HG-ASCqZSI based scheme reveals that the capacity factor is increased by 2.7%, the cost of energy is reduced by 16.7%, and the CO₂ emission rate is reduced by 14.3%. Tests are carried out on software and hardware platforms to verify the enhanced dynamic behavior of the system during low power transfer.