Modular Multilevel Converter Based Topology with Lower Number of High-Frequency Switches

This paper proposes a new configuration based on modular multilevel converter (MMC) with lower number of high-frequency switches. Compared with the conventional MMC, the proposed topology halves the number submodules to generate the same output voltage by adding four line-frequency switches in each phase. Using this technique, the number of high-frequency switches, and accordingly the overall switching losses are substantially reduced. Simulation and experimental results are provided to validate the performance of the proposed configuration.