A New Multi‐Port Converter for Net‐Zero Carbon Buildings

ABSTRACT A novel multi‐port converter topology is introduced for the synchronised integration of photovoltaic (PV) power and a hybrid energy storage system, addressing energy demands in net‐zero carbon buildings. This topology, characterised by soft‐switching operation and reduced component complexity, multiplexes the leading leg of a phase‐shifted full‐bridge to interface with both the battery and PV source, thus minimising power switch count by four and improving energy transfer efficiency. Furthermore, an integrated control scheme is developed to achieve adaptive switching between PV maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and battery voltage‐limiting protection via voltage comparators. A high‐frequency filter is also integrated to facilitate supercapacitor power management for hybrid energy storage. Experimental results from a prototype converter demonstrate high port efficiency, effective mitigation of shock loads and PV fluctuations on battery performance, and successful adaptive protection switching when the battery voltage limit is exceeded.