Paper Infomation
Key Technologies and Applications of Power Electronics in Smart Grids
Full Text(PDF, 61KB)
Author: Rui Luo
Abstract: Power electronics technology plays a pivotal role in the advancement and modernization of smart grids by enabling efficient energy conversion, management, and control. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of key technologies underpinning power electronics systems, with particular emphasis on wide-bandgap (WBG) semiconductor devices such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN). These devices offer superior electrical and thermal properties that overcome the limitations of traditional silicon-based components, facilitating higher efficiency, power density, and operational reliability. The paper further explores advanced power conversion topologies, high-performance drive and control strategies, and electromagnetic compatibility techniques critical to optimizing system performance. Core applications in renewable energy integration, energy storage management, intelligent transmission and distribution, microgrids, and electric vehicle infrastructure are discussed. Additionally, multi-level control architectures, adaptive predictive control methods, and communication technologies that enhance system stability and security are examined. Finally, challenges related to reliability, large-scale coordination, emerging technology integration, and sustainable development are analyzed to identify future research directions. This work contributes to the ongoing evolution of power electronics as a fundamental enabler of resilient, efficient, and sustainable smart grids.
Keywords: Power Electronics; Wide-Bandgap Semiconductors; Smart Grids; Renewable Energy Integration; Energy Storage; Control Strategies; Electromagnetic Compatibility
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