Doctor of Philosophy, The Ohio State University, 2025, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Direct-current (DC) power distribution has gained increasing attention in recent years due to its potential to enhance energy efficiency, integrate renewable energy sources seamlessly, and better accommodate modern electronic loads. Unlike traditional alternating-current (AC) systems, which dominate power distribution, DC systems offer several advantages, including reduced conversion losses, improved compatibility with energy storage technologies, and simplified power electronics interfaces. These benefits make DC microgrids particularly attractive for applications such as data centres, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and renewable energy systems. However, despite these advantages, the widespread adoption of DC distribution remains hindered by critical technical challenges. Managing and mitigating fault currents in DC networks is inherently more complex due to the absence of natural current zero-crossing, simplifying fault interruption in AC systems. Additionally, precise power flow control and voltage regulation are essential to ensure stable operation, especially in multi-source, multi-load power grids. Maintaining power quality and preventing instability in interconnected DC grids further complicate the design and operation of the system.
To overcome these challenges, this work proposes a flexible DC energy router (FeDER)—a modular, scalable power management unit built using wide-band-gap (WBG) semiconductors for interconnected DC microgrids. The FeDER integrates local energy storage and is designed to provide an all-in-one solution for DC microgrid power management requirements: fault management, stability enhancement, power flow regulation, and improved power quality.
The dissertation thoroughly examines FeDER, addressing its key operating modes and functionalities within interconnected DC microgrids, providing an in-depth analysis of the FeDER topology and its underlying operating principles. In addition, the proposal explores strategies to im (open full item for complete abstract)
Committee: Jin Wang (Advisor); Anant Agarwal (Committee Member); Mahesh Illindala (Committee Member)
Subjects: Electrical Engineering; Energy; Engineering