Three-phase three-level grid interactive inverter with fuzzy logic based maximum power point tracking controller

Highlights: ► We propose a three phase three-level NPC inverter for grid interactive PV systems. ► We design fuzzy logic based maximum power point tracking algorithm. ► The proposed algorithm is robust with respect to parameter variations of PV system. ► THD level of the inverter current is in the limits of international standards. ► Total system efficiency is measured as 93.12%. - Abstract: In this study, three-phase single stage grid interactive inverter with maximum power point tracking capability is proposed. The proposed system consists of three-level neutral point clamped inverter, LCL output filter, line frequency transformer, PI current regulator and fuzzy logic based maximum power point tracking algorithm. Rate of change of photovoltaic power and voltage are defined as input variables, and the change in reference current is defined as output variable for the fuzzy logic controller. The proposed maximum power point tracking algorithm is robust with respect to parameter variations of photovoltaic system with adaptive feature of fuzzy logic controller. Maximum power point tracking algorithm determines the inverter current reference depending on the system conditions such as irradiation level and temperature, and PI regulator shapes the inverter output current. Two capacitors' voltages of neutral point clamped inverter are also balanced. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed inverter system has fast transient response and can track the maximum power point of PV system even if atmospheric condition changes rapidly. Also, the inverter output current is in sinusoidal waveform and in phase with line frequency and phase. In addition, total harmonic distortion level of the inverter output current is in the limits of international standards (<5%) and efficiencies of maximum power point tracking algorithm and total system are measured as 98.78% and 93.12%, respectively