Efficient GaN Interface for emerging self-consumption scenarios in DC microgrids

Nowadays it is increasingly pressing the need of efficient and reliable DC-DC interfaces especially in emerging energetic scenarios. In fact, Distributed Energy Resources and recent smart DC grid paradigms require appropriate conversion systems toward DC bus. Silicon based circuits have represented main actors during last sixty years electronics exhibiting thermal and frequency limits only in recent applications. Advancements in Wide Band Gap technologies represent strengths to fulfill Distributed Energy Resources interfaces requirements both in terms of energetic and thermal improvements. This paper focuses on a GaN based DC-DC interface able to connect renewables, loads and storage systems in emergent DC microgrids. In fact, its modular structure matches wide input/output voltage and current specifications. The proposed GaN interface assures monitoring, diagnostics and communication features so permitting interoperation with DC microgrids controllers and energy self-consumption enhancement.