DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

LIST OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER NAME PAGE

1 INTRODUCTION 2

2 SERIES INVERTER 3

3 OPERATION OF
SERIES INVERETER 4

4 CONNECTION 6

5 WORKING 7

CONNECTION DIAGRAM 9

6 ADVANTAGES 10

7 CHALLENGES 12

8 APPLICATIONS 13

CONCLUSION
REFERENCES

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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

A SOLAR INTERFACED SERIES INVERTER IS A DEVICE DESIGNED TO CONVERT DIRECT

CURRENT (DC) GENERATED BY SOLAR PANELS INTO ALTERNATING CURRENT (AC)
THAT CAN BE USED TO POWER HOUSEHOLD OR INDUSTRIAL APPLIANCES. IT’S
CALLED A “SERIES” INVERTER BECAUSE IT’S TYPICALLY USED IN A CONFIGURATION
WHERE MULTIPLE SOLAR PANELS ARE CONNECTED IN SERIES TO INCREASE THE
VOLTAGE OUTPUT. THIS TYPE OF INVERTER PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN HARNESSING
RENEWABLE ENERGY FROM SOLAR SOURCES AND INTEGRATING IT INTO EXISTING
ELECTRICAL GRIDS. IT HELPS OPTIMIZE ENERGY PRODUCTION AND CONTRIBUTES TO
A MORE SUSTAINABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY POWER GENERATION SYSTEM.

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CHAPTER 2
SERIES INVERTER

The inverter circuit in which the commutating elements L and C are connected in
series with the load to form an under damped circuit is called a series inverter. This
circuit is also called load commutated or selfcommutated inverter. This circuit is
called load commutated inverter because the load component (L and C) is
responsible to turned off the thyristor. It is called self component (L commutated
inverter because in this circuit anode current itself become zero resulting the
thyristor turned off.T he Circuit Diagram of Series Inverter is shown in the figure. It
consists of two thyristors (TI and T2). The thyristor T1 and T2 are turn on
appropriately to get the output voltage of desired frequency. This circuit consist of L
and C connected in series with load .

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CHAPTER 3
OPERATION OF SERIES INVERETER

The whole operation is divided into 3 modes:

Mode -1(T1 on and T2 off):

In this mode we give firing pulse to thyristor T1 so, T1 get turned on and T2 thyristor
is turned off initially. So, current flow from supply Vs…..T1……load……back to Vs. The
nature of the load current is alternating due to under damped circuit. So, this time
capacitor © start charging gradually from -Vs to its max voltage. This time inductor
(L) also get charge. When the load current becomes maximum the voltage across
capacitor becomes + Vs. When the load current becomes zero at point a the voltage
across capacitor becomes +2Vs. Then the load current becomes zero the thyristor T1
automatically turns off at point a.

Mode-2(T1 and T2 both off):

This time thyristor T1 turns off because the load current becomes zero from point a
to b. In this time duration The thyristor T1 and T2 are turned off and voltage across
capacitor becomes equal to +2 Vs .

Mode-3(T1 off and T2 on):

In this mode we give firing pulse to thyristor T2. So, T2 get turned on. In this time
capacitor start discharging its energy from +2Vs to – Vs through thyristor T2 and R – L
circuit . Due to capacitor discharging reverse current flow across the load. Now at
point C thyristor T2 turns off automatically due to load current becomes zero. The
thyristor T2 turns off during point C to D and thyristor T1 again turns on. In this way
cycle repeat.

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Waveform

Voltage and current Wave form of Series Inverter 1) Ig1 is the gate pulse of thyristor
T1 2) Ig2 is the gate pulse of thyristor T2 3) Io (output current) 4) Vc (capacit or
voltage) 5) VL (Load voltage

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CHAPTER 4
CONNECTION

A solar interfaced series inverter connection typically refers to a setup where multiple
solar panels are connected in series and then connected to an inverter. In this
configuration, the positive terminal of one panel is connected to the negative terminal
of the next, and so on, until you have a string of panels.

This series connection increases the voltage output, but the current remains the same
as that of a single panel. The combined higher voltage is then fed into the inverter,
which converts the DC (direct current) power generated by the panels into AC
(alternating current) power suitable for use in homes or the electrical grid.

It’s important to ensure that the panels are compatible for series connection in terms of
voltage ratings. Also, consider factors like shading, as it can significantly impact the

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efficiency of a series-connected array. Consulting with a professional or referring to

the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific panels and inverter is recommended
for a safe and efficient installation.

CHAPTER 5

WORKING

1. Solar Panels: The solar panels generate DC electricity when exposed

to sunlight. This DC electricity is produced in varying voltage levels
depending on factors like sunlight intensity and temperature.

2. Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT): The inverter often

incorporates Maximum Power Point Tracking technology. MPPT helps
optimize the power output from the solar panels by adjusting the
electrical operating point of the modules or array. It ensures that the
panels are operating at their most efficient point, especially when
environmental conditions change.

3. DC-DC Conversion: The DC electricity from the solar panels is

typically not at the same voltage level required for the inverter to function
optimally. The inverter includes a DC-DC converter that adjusts the
voltage level to a suitable range.

4. Series Connection: In a series inverter, solar panels are usually

connected in series. This means the positive terminal of one panel is

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connected to the negative terminal of the next panel, and so on. This
increases the total voltage output

5. Inversion Process: The DC electricity is then fed into an inverter

circuit. The inverter uses electronic components to convert the DC input
into AC output
6. Switching Operation: The series inverter uses a series of switching
devices (like transistors or thyristors) that are turned on and off in a
specific sequence. This switching creates an AC waveform.

7. Output Filtering: The AC waveform generated by the inverter may

not be a perfect sine wave. It might have some distortion. Therefore, it
passes through filters to smooth out the waveform and remove unwanted
harmonic

8. Synchronization with the Grid (if applicable): If the system is

grid-tied (connected to the electrical grid), the inverter must synchronize
the phase and frequency of the AC output with the grid. This ensures that
the solar-generated electricity can be safely fed back into the grid without
causing any disruptions.

9. Output to Load or Grid: The AC electricity produced by the

inverter can be used to power household appliances or, if excess energy is
generated, it can be fed back into the electrical grid.

10. Monitoring and Control: Many modern solar inverters come with
monitoring and control features. These allow users to track the
performance of the solar panels and inverter, monitor energy production,

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and sometimes even remotely control the system via a smartphone app or
a computer.

Connection diagram

MPPT – It maximize the energy available from the connected solar module
arrays at any time during its operation.

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Overall, a solar interfaced series inverter plays a crucial role in harnessing

the power of solar energy and making it compatible with the electrical
systems we use in our homes and businesses.

CHAPTER 6

ADVANTAGES

1. Efficient Energy Conversion: It efficiently converts the DC power

generated by solar panels into AC power for use in homes or to be fed back into
the grid.

2. Grid Integration: It allows for the seamless integration of solar power with
the existing electrical grid, enabling the user to draw power from the grid when
solar production is low and feed excess power back into the grid when
production is high.

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3. Reduced Electricity Costs: By harnessing solar energy, users can offset

their electricity bills. When the system generates more power than is consumed,
excess energy can be sold back to the grid.

4. Environmental Benefits: Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source

that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

5. Net Metering: Many regions offer net metering programs, which allow users
to receive credits on their utility bills for the excess energy they generate and
feed back into the grid.

6. Increased Property Value: Installing a solar system with a series inverter

can potentially increase the value of a property, as it demonstrates a
commitment to sustainability and reduced energy costs.

7. Low Maintenance: Series inverters are generally reliable and require

minimal maintenance once installed.

8. Modularity and Scalability: It’s relatively easy to add more solar panels
to an existing system, making it a scalable solution for increasing energy
production as needs grow.

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9. Reduced Grid Strain: By generating power close to where it’s consumed,

solar interfaced series inverters can help alleviate stress on the grid, especially
during peak demand periods.

10. Promotes Energy Independence: Solar power provides a degree of

energy independence, reducing reliance on centralized power generation and
vulnerable transmission lines.

CHAPTER 7

CHALLENGES

1. Single Point of Failure: In a series configuration, if one inverter fails, it can

affect the entire system’s performance.

2. Mismatch Issues: Series-connected inverters may face challenges if there are

variations in individual solar panel performance, as the system is only as strong
as its weakest link.

3. Reduced Efficiency in Partial Shading: Partial shading of one panel can

significantly impact the output of the entire series, leading to reduced overall
efficiency.

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4. Complex Maintenance: Troubleshooting and maintaining a series inverter

setup can be more complex compared to parallel configurations.

5. Cost: Initial installation costs for series inverters might be higher, especially
when additional components are needed for monitoring and control.
6. Limited Scalability: Expanding a series-connected system might require
careful consideration of matching new components with existing ones, limiting
scalability.

CHAPTER 8
APPLICATIONS

1. Residential Solar Power Systems: They can be used in homes where

series connection of solar panels is more efficient based on the roof layout and
shading conditions.

2. Commercial and Industrial Installations: Larger-scale solar power

installations on commercial or industrial buildings can benefit from series-
connected solar panels to maximize energy production.

3. Off-Grid Power Systems: In off-grid applications, such as remote areas or

standalone power systems, series inverters can be employed to harness solar
energy efficiently.

4. Solar Street Lighting: Series inverters can be utilized in solar street lighting
systems to enhance the performance of the integrated solar panels.

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5. Agricultural and Rural Electrification: In rural areas and agricultural

settings, series inverters can be part of solar-powered systems providing
electricity for irrigation, lighting, and other needs.

6. Educational and Research Purposes: They can be used in educational

institutions and research facilities to study and experiment with different solar
power configurations.

7. Hybrid Systems: In combination with other renewable energy sources or

storage systems, series inverters can contribute to hybrid power systems for a
more reliable and sustainable energy supply.

8. Grid-Tied Systems: When connected to the grid, series inverters help feed
excess solar energy back into the grid, promoting energy efficiency and
potentially allowing for net metering.

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CONCLUSION

The conclusion about a solar-interfaced series inverter would depend on specific

details and goals. Generally, such inverters can efficiently convert solar energy into
usable electricity. Key factors for assessment include performance, reliability, and
compatibility with the solar system. Evaluate technical specifications, reviews, and
compatibility with your setup for a comprehensive conclusion.

A solar inverter is essential to any solar power system. It allows modern AC

appliances and devices to utilize the DC power generated by photovoltaic solar panels.

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REFERENCES

1. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9416236
2. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_inverter

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