HOW D IRECT C OUPLING SUCCEEDS

Abstract

Nextek has substantially improved the commercial efficiency of all
forms of distributed generation (DG), but especially solar photovoltaic
(PV) systems, by the invention of a multi-source power module. One
path in the module allows for the Direct Coupling ® of PV to a direct-
current (DC) load, eliminating the inversion to alternating current (AC)
that is required in standard solar PV systems. Because PV is a relatively
inherently low-yielding power source, ridding these systems of conver-
sion losses make a large measurable difference in the system output. If
the load requires more power than the distributed resource, other
sources such as the grid or stored electricity, are combined with the DC
to service the load. In this way, the threshold losses of inversion are
avoided, and the contribution of the DG is a greater percentage of the
total power delivered. Consumers therefore realize a dramatic accelera-
tion of the payback of PV-powered building applications.
The power module outputs highly regulated DC by prioritizing its
three inputs, 1) DC from a distributed generation source such as PV, 2)
AC from the utility grid, and 3) optional battery storage. Precise meter-
ing, monitoring and control can also be performed at the module