Evaluating Megawatt-Scale Smart Solar Inverters: A Commissioned 2.5-MW dc Supply for Testing Grid-Tie Inverters

Abstract

Utility-scale photovoltaic (PV ) plants often use megawatt-scale central inverters with high efficiency and power density. Inverter manufacturers now offer solutions of more than 2 MW for 1,000-Vdc-class PV arrays; however, certifying inverters at this power level can present test equipment design and procurement challenges, particularly with new interconnection requirements such as California Rule 21.