Interlinking Converters for Hybrid AC/DC Microgrids: A Systematic Literature Review

The interlinking converter (ILC) is responsible for performing the necessary conversions and managing the power flow between the AC and DC sub-grids of hybrid microgrid (HMG), which makes its full operation a critical factor for the performance of these microgrids. Previous review works have comprehensively addressed the control system and structures for HMGs; however, no review works with an emphasis on hardware solutions for ILCs have been identified. This Systematic Review aims to summarize the existing evidence on the main problems and solutions for the development and operation of ILCs to serve HMGs, especially in relation to hardware, identify gaps in current research, and provide context for new research. Searches were carried out in the Scopus database, considering the period from January 2019 to August 2025, adopting the following inclusion criteria: articles published in journals, in English, and dealing with the development of the ILC, including the hardware and not only the control system. The total number of articles selected, adhering to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, was 36. The results showed that the most adopted converter topologies were the three-phase full bridge, the ten-switch converter, and the neutral point clamped. Among the most addressed research problems are low power quality, stability under different operating conditions, efficient power sharing management, and efficiency under different operating conditions. Despite the advances, there are still underexplored problems that can serve as topics for future research, such as converter optimization, reliability and cost analysis, topology selection, and definition of design methods.