Date: Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011
6:00PM: Networking & Pizza
6:30PM: Meeting
7:30pm: Q&A
Location:
Texas Instruments (formerly National Semiconductor) Building E Auditorium
2900 Semiconductor Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95051
Cost: Donations for food accepted
RSVP:
Title:
The Impact of Microinverters in Photovoltaic Systems
Speaker:
Dr. Brandon J. Pierquet, Senior Design Engineer at Enphase Energy
Abstract:
Interest in photovoltaic (PV) systems has increased significantly over
the past decade, in both the public and private sector. With the cost
of photovoltaic modules dropping, and increasing energy costs, many
installations are proving to be a fiscal benefit. In traditional
installations, a single central dc-ac inverter is fed by a series
connected string of modules; mismatch between the ideal maximum power
point tracking (MPPT) of each module reduces the realisable energy
capture of the system. A new style of inverter, often referred to as a
microinverter, provides the MPPT and dc-ac conversion at each PV
module, allowing direct connection to the grid.
This talk will cover the trade-offs presented by microinverters in
various system configurations, from kilowatt sized residential systems
through multi-megawatt utility scale installations. Focus will be
placed on the challenges faced in cost, efficiency, reliability,
safety, and overall market acceptance. Some depth into the common
power electronic topologies and control algorithms will be covered,
along with grid interconnection challenges and standards compliance
issues.
Speaker Biography:
Dr. Brandon J. Pierquet is currently a Senior Design Engineer at
Enphase Energy, where he is working on the development of new
microinverter implementations and control strategies. He received his
Ph.D. and S.M. degrees in from the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology in 2011 and 2006 respectively, and his B.S. degree from the
University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2004, all in electrical
engineering. His research interests include resonant power conversion
for ac systems, multi-port converter topologies, embedded system
control, and solar energy applications.