Fast and robust power electronic interfaces for DC net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs)

Nowadays it is estimated that buildings consume about 40% of the global energy, what corresponds to one-third of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To deal with this issue, the concept of Net-Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) was conceived. These buildings produce, by means of renewable energy sources (RESs), the total energy they consume on an annual basis. Since RESs, such as photovoltaics, are fluctuating, a strong grid connection and/or Energy Storage System (ESS) is/are required. This research project focuses on a NZEB with an innovative DC bus. The research problem to be tackled is the development of fast acting and parameter insensitive controllers for the power electronics interfaces of RESs and ESSs. The plan is to consider the control of these interfaces as a general linear quadratic regulator (LQR) problem as opposed to the conventional PI controllers. The performance of the interfaces with both technologies will be compared experimentally.

Faculty Supervisor:

Luiz Antonio Correa Lopes

Student:

Partner:

Universidade Federal de Santa Maria

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Concordia University

Program: