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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 directcurrent (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 conversion 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 acceleration 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 metering, monitoring and control can also be performed at the module.