A Coupled Inductor-Based High-Voltage Gain DC–DC Converter for Renewable Energy Interface in DC Microgrids

This paper presents a dual-switch high-voltage-gain DC-DC converter designed for renewable energy-based DC microgrids, utilizing a coupled inductor and voltage multiplier cells to achieve high voltage step-up. The proposed topology achieves high voltage gain at low duty cycles, which enhances efficiency by minimizing conduction losses. Operating at reduced duty cycles not only improves power conversion efficiency but also contributes to lower thermal stress on semiconductor devices, further enhancing reliability. Additionally, the converter features low input current ripple, which is crucial for the stable integration of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels and ensuring smooth power delivery to the load. The common ground connection between the input and output ports simplifies system integration and enhances safety and makes the converter suitable for connecting low-voltage renewable sources to a high-voltage DC bus in microgrid applications. The combination of high voltage gain, high efficiency, and reduced input current ripple positions this converter as a suitable solution for renewable energy systems, where maximizing power extraction and minimizing losses are critical. To verify the converter’s performance, detailed operational modes, steady-state analysis, comparative evaluations, and experimental results are provided.