In the drive towards greater resource efficiency in photovoltaic (PV) power plants, Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE is pioneering the adoption of medium voltage (MV) technology. This strategic shift aims to minimize the use of critical raw materials like copper and aluminum, which are essential for connecting renewable energy sources to the grid.
Traditionally, PV plants have operated at low voltages, necessitating larger cross-sections of cables to transmit power efficiently. However, Fraunhofer ISE asserts that transitioning to medium voltage can significantly reduce these material requirements. Andreas Hensel, group manager for High Power Electronics and System Technology at Fraunhofer ISE, explains that raising the output voltage from 800 VAC to 1,500 VAC can cut cable cross-sections by up to 75% while maintaining the same power output. This reduction not only conserves raw materials but also lowers installation costs by simplifying cable laying and connection processes.
Moreover, the shift to medium voltage offers substantial benefits in terms of system performance and scalability. At 1,500 V output voltage, a single transformer can handle 10 to 12 MVA (megavolt-amperes) of power, compared to the 3 to 5 MVA typically managed at lower voltages. This efficiency gain means fewer transformers and switchgear are required, reducing both construction expenses and the physical footprint of PV installations.
The advancement towards MV technology has been made feasible by innovations in high voltage silicon carbide (SiC) components, known for their rapid switching capabilities. Fraunhofer ISE achieved a significant milestone in 2023 with the development and successful deployment of the world’s first medium-voltage PV string inverter in the “MS-LeiKra” project. This two-stage inverter operates at 1,500 VAC and 250 kVA, showcasing the technological readiness for MV integration in PV systems.
Christian Schoener, project manager of Medium Voltage at Fraunhofer ISE, emphasizes that the transition to MV technology is no longer a matter of if, but when and how. With global demand for raw materials like copper expected to outpace supply by 2025, the imperative for sustainable energy solutions becomes even clearer. Fraunhofer ISE is actively preparing for a broader market rollout of MV PV systems, with plans underway for pilot projects based on their innovative string inverters.
In collaboration with a European consortium formed during a recent MS-PV workshop, Fraunhofer ISE is setting the groundwork for standardized technological and regulatory frameworks essential for MV adoption. This consortium, comprising stakeholders from various sectors involved in large-scale PV projects, aims to streamline processes and optimize system performance across the board.
Beyond utility-scale PV installations, the application scope for MV technology extends to charging infrastructure, industrial grids, large heat pumps, battery storage systems, electrolyzers, and wind turbines. The benefits of higher system voltages translate into significant savings in materials, costs, and space, paving the way for innovative hybrid renewable energy systems.
As the global energy landscape evolves towards sustainability, Fraunhofer ISE’s pioneering efforts in MV technology promise to reshape how renewable energy sources are integrated and managed. By prioritizing resource efficiency and technological innovation, they are leading the charge toward a greener and more efficient future for solar power generation and beyond.
Related
This post was originally published on 3rd party site mentioned in the title of this site
