The Role of Multilevel Inverters in Mitigating Harmonics and Improving Power Quality in Renewable-Powered Smart Grids: A Comprehensive Review

Shanikumar Vaidya, Krishnamachar Prasad () and Jeff Kilby
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Shanikumar Vaidya: School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Krishnamachar Prasad: School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Jeff Kilby: School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 8, 1-20

Abstract: The world is increasingly turning to renewable energy sources (RES) to address climate change issues and achieve net-zero carbon emissions. Integrating RES into existing power grids is necessary for sustainability because the unpredictability and irregularity of the RES can affect grid stability and generate power quality issues, leading to equipment damage and increasing operational costs. As a result, the importance of RES is severely compromised. To tackle these challenges, traditional power systems (TPS) will have to become more innovative. Smart grids use advanced technology such as two-way communication between consumers and service providers, automated control, and real-time monitoring to manage power flow effectively. Inverters are effective tools for solving power quality problems in renewable-powered smart grids. However, their effectiveness depends on topology, control method and design. This review paper focuses on the role of multilevel inverters (MLIs) in mitigating power quality issues such as voltage sag, swell and total harmonics distortion (THD). The results shown here are through simulation studies using DC sources but can be extended to RES-integrated smart grids. The comprehensive review also examines the drawbacks of TPS to understand the importance and necessity of developing a smart power system. Finally, the paper discusses future trends in MLI control technology, addressing power quality problems in smart grid environments.

Keywords: multilevel inverters; power quality; voltage sag and swell; total harmonics distortion; smart grids (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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