Comparison of cascaded modular converter and central Multi-Port converter for modularization of battery packs

The modularization of battery packs for grid-scale applications reduces the number of series-connected cells, lightens the load on battery management systems, and improves their reliability. The complete modular structure can be achieved by connecting each battery module to its corresponding converter and connecting the converters in series. An alternative strategy is that the battery packs can be modularized with the help of complementary switches in a multi-port converter. In this paper, these two modularized battery energy storage systems will be investigated and compared in terms of the required number of components, their ratings, and the efficiency, reliability, and flexibility in power sharing.