Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System

A special issue of Electronics (ISSN 2079-9292). This special issue belongs to the section "Power Electronics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 April 2025 | Viewed by 10993

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Electrical and Thermal Engineering, Higher Technical School of Engineering, University of Huelva, Avda. Fuerzas Armadas, s/n, 21007 Huelva, Spain
Interests: power system analysis; renewable energy; distributed generation; power quality; power electronics; electric vehicles
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

At present, we must construct a sustainable global energy system to stop climate change. In this sense, the electricity and transport sectors play an important role. The transition towards an renewable energies and the progressive implementation of electric vehicles are necessary.

Power electronics refers to the application of electronic devices to control and transform electrical energy. This technology is essential for the operation of renewable energy systems, as well as the charging of electric vehicles.

They are being increasingly used to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and achieve a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The topics to be addressed in the Special Issue include (but are not limited to):

  • Power electronics in renewable energy sources.
  • Power flow control and optimization.
  • Electrical energy efficiency in industry, buildings, transmission and distribution, etc.
  • Modeling, simulation and control of power electronic converters.
  • Analysis of the uncertainty generated by renewable sources and electric vehicles.
  • High/Medium-voltage DC systems.
  • Grid planning with large-scale renewable energy resources.
  • Renewable energy conversion systems: design, modelling, control and integration to modern power systems.
  • Power and energy quality in electric systems with renewable energy resources.
  • Power electronics and control in microgrids.

Dr. Francisco Javier Ruiz-Rodríguez
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • voltage control
  • microgrid and smart grid
  • renewable energy sources
  • electric vehicles
  • photovoltaics
  • wind power
  • optimization
  • power electronics
  • power quality
  • electric systems
  • uncertainty
  • MVDC system
  • energy efficiency

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

21 pages, 3037 KiB  
Article
Bi-Directional Charging with V2L Integration for Optimal Energy Management in Electric Vehicles
by Balakumar Muniandi, Siyi Wan and Mohammad El-Yabroudi
Electronics 2024, 13(21), 4221; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13214221 - 28 Oct 2024
Viewed by 710
Abstract
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as an efficient transportation solution but they also present unique challenges for energy management. Bi-directional charging (BDC) is a solution that allows EVs to not only consume energy from the grid but also supply energy back [...] Read more.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as an efficient transportation solution but they also present unique challenges for energy management. Bi-directional charging (BDC) is a solution that allows EVs to not only consume energy from the grid but also supply energy back to the grid. This facilitates vehicle-to-load (V2L) integration, where EVs can act as mobile power sources for homes, buildings, and the grid. V2L enables better energy management by utilizing EVs as a flexible resource to balance grid demand and supply in the proposed system. This is achieved through intelligent coordination between the EVs, charging stations, and the grid, using smart meters and communication networks. Integration of BDC and V2L also enables EVs to provide backup power during grid outages, reduce the need for costly grid infrastructure, and support renewable energy integration. BDC with V2L integration is a promising approach for optimal energy management in EVs and can play a significant role in the future of sustainable transportation and energy systems. The proposed model reached 95.13% charging efficiency, 95.03% energy management, 95.69% power rating, 96.28% voltage support and 87.99% temperature management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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23 pages, 3746 KiB  
Article
A Versatile Platform for PV System Integration into Microgrids
by Gabriel Gómez-Ruiz, Reyes Sánchez-Herrera, Jesús Clavijo-Camacho, Juan M. Cano, Francisco J. Ruiz-Rodríguez and José M. Andújar
Electronics 2024, 13(20), 3995; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13203995 - 11 Oct 2024
Viewed by 612
Abstract
Advancing decarbonization critically depends on the integration of PV systems into microgrids. However, this integration faces challenges, including the variability of photovoltaic solar energy production, the demands of energy management, and the complexities of grid synchronization and communication. To address these challenges, a [...] Read more.
Advancing decarbonization critically depends on the integration of PV systems into microgrids. However, this integration faces challenges, including the variability of photovoltaic solar energy production, the demands of energy management, and the complexities of grid synchronization and communication. To address these challenges, a PV emulator platform is an essential tool. This paper presents a novel four-layer PV emulator platform that seamlessly integrates power systems, control systems, measurement instrumentation, and communication processes. The proposed platform enables the emulation of I-V curves and the dynamic adjustment of operating points—including both the maximum power point (MPP) and power reserve point (PRP)—as well as temperature and irradiance while providing sufficient power capacity for microgrid integration. To validate its effectiveness, the platform was assessed for its capability to adjust operating points, such as MPPs or PRPs, under varying irradiance and temperature conditions. The results show that the platform effectively adjusts operating points with a deviation of less than 5% from theoretical values and successfully tracks a sequence of operating points. This performance underscores the platform’s potential in integrating and managing PV systems within microgrid environments, thereby advancing the path to decarbonization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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17 pages, 1334 KiB  
Article
A Detailed Analysis and Gain Derivation of Reconfigurable Voltage Rectifier-Based LLC Converter
by Fahad Alaql, Walied Alfraidi, Abdullah Alhatlani, Abdullrahman A. Al-Shamma’a, Hassan M. Hussein Farh and Ahmed Allehyani
Electronics 2024, 13(19), 3788; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13193788 - 24 Sep 2024
Viewed by 883
Abstract
In this paper, a complete analysis of an LLC resonant converter with a customized rectifier structure is presented. The converter is intended for wide, low-input, high-output voltage DC bus applications. The performance of the converter is assessed using comprehensive time-domain and fundamental harmonic [...] Read more.
In this paper, a complete analysis of an LLC resonant converter with a customized rectifier structure is presented. The converter is intended for wide, low-input, high-output voltage DC bus applications. The performance of the converter is assessed using comprehensive time-domain and fundamental harmonic approximation (FHA), which demonstrates its capacity to operate across an ample range of voltages by precisely adjusting the rectifier structure. The converter’s capability is illustrated by deriving and discussing detailed mode operation, steady-state analysis, and DC gain equations. In order to verify the theoretical analysis, a prototype with a power output of 250 watts is constructed and subjected to testing. The results of the testing demonstrate that the converter is both feasible and effective. The experimental findings illustrate its capacity to manage vast voltage ranges while upholding high efficiency. In addition, the converter utilizes a frequency switching modulation (FSM) to connect with a photovoltaic (PV) panel and control the high output voltage. This demonstrates its adaptability in renewable energy applications. The validation is in accordance with theoretical predictions, demonstrating the converter’s high-efficiency performance and versatility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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17 pages, 3826 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Remaining Useful Life of Battery Using Partial Discharge Data
by Qaiser Hussain, Sunguk Yun, Jaekyun Jeong, Mangyu Lee and Jungeun Kim
Electronics 2024, 13(17), 3475; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13173475 - 1 Sep 2024
Viewed by 691
Abstract
Lithium-ion batteries are cornerstones of renewable technologies, which is why they are used in many applications, specifically in electric vehicles and portable electronics. The accurate estimation of the remaining useful life (RUL) of a battery is pertinent for durability, efficient operation, and stability. [...] Read more.
Lithium-ion batteries are cornerstones of renewable technologies, which is why they are used in many applications, specifically in electric vehicles and portable electronics. The accurate estimation of the remaining useful life (RUL) of a battery is pertinent for durability, efficient operation, and stability. In this study, we have proposed an approach to predict the RUL of a battery using partial discharge data from the battery cycles. Unlike other studies that use complete cycle data and face reproducibility issues, our research utilizes only partial data, making it both practical and reproducible. To analyze this partial data, we applied various deep learning methods and compared multiple models, among which ConvLSTM showed the best performance, with an RMSE of 0.0824. By comparing the performance of ConvLSTM at various ratios and ranges, we have confirmed that using partial data can achieve a performance equal to or better than that obtained when using complete cycle data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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21 pages, 1347 KiB  
Article
Diagnostics on Power Electronics Converters by Means of Autoregressive Modelling
by Roberto Diversi, Leonardo Sandrolini, Mattia Simonazzi, Nicolò Speciale and Andrea Mariscotti
Electronics 2024, 13(15), 3083; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13153083 - 4 Aug 2024
Viewed by 825
Abstract
Power conversion systems for wireless power transfer (WPT) applications have demanding requirements for continuity of service, besides being operated with stressing environmental conditions. Diagnostic and prognostic programs are thus quite useful and this work shows a novel approach based on the analysis of [...] Read more.
Power conversion systems for wireless power transfer (WPT) applications have demanding requirements for continuity of service, besides being operated with stressing environmental conditions. Diagnostic and prognostic programs are thus quite useful and this work shows a novel approach based on the analysis of spectra of an autoregressive (AR) model to recognize a wide range of faulty devices, including incipient faults, when deviations from nominal parameters begin to manifest. AR modeling provides cleaner and easier to interpret spectra, where only the salient features remain, and they are more sensitive to variations in the corresponding time domain waveforms. A log spectral distance is calculated that successfully separates healthy and faulty states of the feeding single-phase inverter, even in challenging scenarios of poor signal-to-noise ratio. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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17 pages, 7201 KiB  
Article
Control and Managing of Individual Solar Water Heating Systems in an Apartment Complex
by Michael Krinitsky and Moshe Averbukh
Electronics 2024, 13(12), 2305; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13122305 - 13 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1251
Abstract
Managing solar energy utilization and water heating in multi-apartment buildings presents formidable challenges due to limited space for solar collector installation. Optimizing heat energy distribution among communal consumers is crucial, necessitating precise regulation of hot water flow from the main system line to [...] Read more.
Managing solar energy utilization and water heating in multi-apartment buildings presents formidable challenges due to limited space for solar collector installation. Optimizing heat energy distribution among communal consumers is crucial, necessitating precise regulation of hot water flow from the main system line to individual thermal storage tanks. The objective is to minimize heat and electricity losses while maximizing temperature levels in each tank. An electronic control system, centered around a microcontroller, has been developed with an efficient algorithm, data storage memory, and communication capabilities. The implemented solar heating system is tailored to each individual consumer, incorporating precise measurements for every apartment. This customization enhances efficiency not only for the individual consumer but also benefits the overall solar system within the building. This article explores the development and past outcomes of implementing such a control system, highlighting its significant advantages, particularly in multi-story buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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17 pages, 1124 KiB  
Article
A Multi-Step-Ahead Photovoltaic Power Forecasting Approach Using One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Networks and Transformer
by Jihoon Moon
Electronics 2024, 13(11), 2007; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13112007 - 21 May 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1032
Abstract
Due to environmental concerns about the use of fossil fuels, renewable energy, especially solar energy, is increasingly sought after for its ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and versatile capacity. However, the variability in environmental factors poses a significant challenge to photovoltaic (PV) power generation [...] Read more.
Due to environmental concerns about the use of fossil fuels, renewable energy, especially solar energy, is increasingly sought after for its ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and versatile capacity. However, the variability in environmental factors poses a significant challenge to photovoltaic (PV) power generation forecasting, which is crucial for maintaining power system stability and economic efficiency. In this paper, a novel muti-step-ahead PV power generation forecasting model by integrating single-step and multi-step forecasts from various time resolutions was developed. One-dimensional convolutional neural network (CNN) layers were used for single-step forecasting to capture specific temporal patterns, with the transformer model improving multi-step forecasting by leveraging the combined outputs of the CNN. This combination can provide accurate and immediate forecasts as well as the ability to identify longer-term generation trends. Using the DKASC-ASA-1A and 1B datasets for empirical validation, several preprocessing methods were applied and a series of experiments were conducted to compare the performance of the model with other widely used deep learning models. The framework proved to be capable of accurately predicting multi-step-ahead PV power generation at multiple time resolutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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21 pages, 9425 KiB  
Article
Power Hardware-in-the-Loop Smart Inverter Testing with Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems
by Hao Chang and Luigi Vanfretti
Electronics 2024, 13(10), 1866; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13101866 - 10 May 2024
Viewed by 1418
Abstract
The increasing integration of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) inverters and inverter-based resource (IBR) systems into the power grid emphasizes the critical need for standardized procedures to ensure their reliability and effective grid support functions. This research is driven by the gap in standardized testing [...] Read more.
The increasing integration of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) inverters and inverter-based resource (IBR) systems into the power grid emphasizes the critical need for standardized procedures to ensure their reliability and effective grid support functions. This research is driven by the gap in standardized testing methodologies for smart inverters, which are pivotal for the stability and quality of power in distributed energy systems. We used a Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) laboratory setup to conduct a comprehensive analysis of smart inverters within a simulated real-world grid environment. Our approach integrates a Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) with PHIL testing to evaluate the smart inverter’s performance across various operational modes. The detailed test protocols mimic real-world grid conditions, enabling the examination of the inverter’s dynamic response to grid disturbances, control strategies, and communication protocols. The primary aim of this study is to rigorously test and validate the primary functions of smart inverters, focusing on their impact on overall grid stability and power quality management. This includes advanced features like Volt–VAR, Volt–Watt, dynamic power factor control, and the seamless integration of smart inverters into DERMSs and Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMSs). Furthermore, we aim to bridge the current gap in standardized testing procedures, contributing to the establishment of robust standards and operating protocols for smart inverter integration into the grid. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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21 pages, 7100 KiB  
Article
Robust EMPC-Based Frequency-Adaptive Grid Voltage Sensorless Control for an LCL-Filtered Grid-Connected Inverter
by Yubin Kim, Thuy Vi Tran and Kyeong-Hwa Kim
Electronics 2024, 13(5), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13050998 - 6 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 926
Abstract
A robust explicit model predictive control (EMPC)-based frequency-adaptive grid voltage sensorless control is developed for a grid-connected inverter (GCI) via a linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach under the model parametric uncertainties as well as distorted and imbalanced grid voltages. In order to ensure [...] Read more.
A robust explicit model predictive control (EMPC)-based frequency-adaptive grid voltage sensorless control is developed for a grid-connected inverter (GCI) via a linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach under the model parametric uncertainties as well as distorted and imbalanced grid voltages. In order to ensure the quality of grid currents injected into the utility grid even when the system model parameters vary, the proposed control scheme is accomplished by an enhanced prediction model rather than the conventional prediction model obtained by fixed parameters. Furthermore, an LMI-based observer is integrated with the disturbance observer to improve the reference tracking performance and to reject disturbances. The proposed observer is employed for the grid frequency-adaptive control without the need for grid voltage sensors. The proposed current controller and observer employ the LMI scheme to maintain a stable and robust operation of the GCI. The discrete-time frequency response and pole-zero map analyses are utilized to examine the system performance including the stability and robustness against parametric uncertainties. Comprehensive simulation and experimental tests as well as theoretical analyses clearly validate the robustness of the proposed control scheme under various harsh test conditions with non-ideal and unexpected grid and system parametric uncertainties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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22 pages, 4278 KiB  
Article
Vulnerability Analysis of Power Transmission Grids Subject to Cascading Failures
by Francesco Cadini, Luca Lomazzi and Enrico Zio
Electronics 2024, 13(5), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13050943 - 29 Feb 2024
Viewed by 978
Abstract
Cascading failures are a major threat to interconnected systems, such as electrical power transmission networks. Typically, approaches proposed for devising optimized control strategies are demonstrated with reference to a few test systems of reference (IEEE systems). However, this limits the robustness of the [...] Read more.
Cascading failures are a major threat to interconnected systems, such as electrical power transmission networks. Typically, approaches proposed for devising optimized control strategies are demonstrated with reference to a few test systems of reference (IEEE systems). However, this limits the robustness of the proposed strategies with respect to different power grid structures. Recently, this issue has been addressed by considering synthetic networks randomly generated for mimicking power transmission grids’ characteristics. These networks can be used for investigating the vulnerability of power networks to cascading failures. In this work, we propose to apply a recent algorithm for sampling random power grid topologies with realistic electrical parameters and further extend it to the random allocation of generation and load. Integration with a realistic cascade simulation tool, then, allows us to perform thorough statistical analyses of power grids with respect to their cascading failure behavior, thus offering a powerful tool for identifying the strengths and weaknesses of different grid classes. New metrics for ranking the control and mitigation effort requirements of individual cascade scenarios and/or of grid configurations are defined and computed. Finally, genetic algorithms are used to identify strategies to improve the robustness of existing power networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Power Electronics and Renewable Energy System)
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