A High Gain DC-DC Converter with Continuous Input Current for Parallel SPO Applications

This paper presents a novel high-gain, non-isolated step-up DC-DC converter to enhance the performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems in DC microgrids. The converter addresses the challenges faced by PV systems by employing a parallel topology, where each PV module is paired with a dedicated converter for improved flexibility and energy production. The proposed converter achieves high voltage gain with a lower duty cycle, thereby reducing semiconductor losses and increasing efficiency. This design also simplifies the switch driver by using a single switch and provides continuous input current, which is crucial for renewable energy applications. A comprehensive analysis of the converter’s operation in Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM) is provided, including both ideal and non-ideal conditions. The performance is validated through MATLAB/Simulink simulations, along with an adaptive Perturb and Observe (P&O) MPPT algorithm, confirming the converter’s effectiveness for grid-connected, parallel Solar Power Optimization (SPO) systems.