Comparative Performance Analysis Between DC-DC Multi-Input ZETA and Multi-Input SEPIC Converter for Hybrid Renewable Energy System

In response to the rapidly rising global energy demand, as an alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based resources, the production of energy from renewable energy sources is becoming more and more popular. Due to the low voltage level at the outputs of solar photovoltaics or other renewable energy sources, as well as to improve the efficiency of power conversion, DC-DC converters are widely used for supplying power to the loads. Among the many DC-DC conversion topologies, ZETA and SEPIC converters are well regarded for their higher operational efficiency. The development of a modified DC-DC Multi-Input SEPIC and a Multi-Input ZETA converter, as well as performance-based comparisons between them, are covered in this work. The converters are deployed between DC loads and hybrid renewable energy sources. Both of the converters have the capability to facilitate more than one energy source at the input terminals. PV panels and wind turbines are employed as hybrid energy sources for both converters in the experiment. The simulation is performed in MATLAB/Simulink for assessment with constant irradiation level and temperature for PV panels, and fixed wind speed and altitude level of wind turbine for ease of analysis. Finally, the comparative assessment is validated through simulation results where both converters were operated in boost mode.