Design and Implementation of a Modified Cascaded Z-Source High Step-Up Boost Converter for Photovoltaic (PV) Applications

To improve the voltage gain of step-up converters, the cascaded technique is considered as a possible solution in this paper. By considering the concept of cascading two Z- source networks in a conventional boost converter, the proposed topology takes the advantages of both impedance source and cascaded converters. By applying some modifications, the proposed converter provides high voltage gain while the voltage stress of the switch and diodes is still low. Moreover, the low input current ripple of the converter makes it absolutely appropriate for photovoltaic applications in expanding the lifetime of PV panels. After analyzing the operation principles of the proposed converter, we present the simulation and experimental results of a 100 W prototype to verify the proposed converter performance.