Abstract
Smart transformer (ST)-based meshed hybrid microgrids consisting of ac and dc distribution lines have recently been proposed. However, such solutions demand laying of additional distribution lines in the electric grid for forming dc grids, resulting in additional costs and space requirements. Generally, the loads are predominantly single-phase with limited three-phase loads in the low voltage (LV) ac distribution grid. Considering such load composition in LV distribution grid, this paper proposes a new method to establish ST-based meshed hybrid grid consisting of ac and dc grids. The three-phase dcac power converter of the conventional ST is replaced with a single-phase dc-ac converter, and one of the phases of existing three-phase ac distribution along with the neutral wire is used for forming single-phase ac distribution grid. The remaining two phases of the existing three-phase ac distribution grid are connected to the LVdc link of the ST to form dc distribution grid. Single-phase distributed generation (DG) converters injecting power from DG systems are utilized to form the ac-dc meshed hybrid microgrid. A three-phase converter is used to support three-phase load by taking power from the LVdc line. The simulation results have been shown to verify the performance of the proposed configuration.