Comparison of three-phase inverter topologies for grid-connected photovoltaic systems

Three-phase inverter topologies feature continuous power flow and symmetrical feed-in. The number of available photovoltaic three-phase inverter designs has increased within the past years. This paper features a study of basic three-phase power electronic inverter topologies for grid-connected PV-applications in Europe. Inverter topologies can be basically divided into two main types: Voltage-Source Inverters (VSI) and Current-Source Inverters (CSI). The recently introduced Z-Source Inverter combines some of the advantages of the CSI and the VSI. The basic behaviour of the topologies is described and performance indicators related to component stresses is given.