New MPC‐5LUC with reduced PSD count for MVHP direct‐drive WECS with PMSG: a cost‐effective solution

In this study, a new multi‐point clamped (MPC), three‐phase two‐leg, five‐level unidirectional front end high‐power‐factor converter is proposed for directly connected wind energy conversion system with a permanent magnet synchronous generator. The proposed topology can be modelled and modulated similarly to other existing MPC structured converters with the omission of clamping diodes and bidirectional switches. The proposed converter has an advantage of reduced power semiconductor device count and maximum device stress. A factor (normalised index) is introduced and comprehensive comparative analysis with N level existing topologies is carried out. The minimum value of the normalised index makes the proposed topology as a suitable option for medium‐voltage and high‐power applications. Also, the fault ride through capability is one of the key performance indicators is also investigated on proposed topology under voltage sag condition. Further, steady state and transient performance of topology during load as well as dc‐link voltage change are presented. Minimum distorted and balanced line currents with unity power factor are drawn from supply by implementing negative sequence elimination control algorithm. The validation of proposed topology is verified with simulation and a down‐scaled experimental setup.