Solid-State Transformers: Technology, Applications, and the Path to Grid-Scale Deployment

#Power #bidirectional-power-flow #Solid-State-Transformer #energy-storage #distribution-networks

The solid-state transformer (SST) is emerging as a potential alternative to the conventional line-frequency transformer (LFT), offering advanced power-electronic capabilities in addition to voltage transformation and isolation. As distribution networks evolve toward bidirectional power flow, higher DER penetration, transportation electrification, and increasing DC loads, SSTs are receiving growing attention as a potential building block for future power systems. 

This webinar will provide an overview of SST technology, from its fundamental power-electronic building blocks and major topologies to control strategies and system-level applications. It will examine applications in distribution networks, renewable energy and storage integration, EV fast charging, transportation and shipboard systems, data centres, and hybrid AC/DC microgrids. The session will also discuss the key advantages and limitations of SSTs, including voltage regulation, reactive-power support, DC interfaces, efficiency, reliability, protection, cost, standardization, and utility acceptance. Representative demonstrations, commercial developments, and open research directions will also be highlighted. 

The session will feature Nasrin Einabadi, IEEE Member and Ph.D. candidate in Electrical and Computer Engineering (Power and Energy Systems) at the University of Waterloo. Her research focuses on solid-state transformers, power-electronic converter modelling and control, small-signal stability of multi-converter systems, and hybrid AC/DC power systems. 

The webinar is intended for students, practicing power-system and power-electronics engineers, utility planners, researchers, and professionals interested in next-generation power systems. 

Topics to Be Covered 

• Limitations of conventional transformers in modern power systems 

• SST fundamentals, architectures, and major topologies 

• Advanced capabilities enabled by power electronics 

• Wide-bandgap devices and medium-frequency transformer technology 

• SST control strategies and coordination between conversion stages 

• Applications in distribution systems, DERs, energy storage, EV charging, data centres, and hybrid AC/DC microgrids 

• Reliability, protection, fault behaviour, and thermal considerations 

• Efficiency, cost, standardization, and utility acceptance 

• Demonstration projects and emerging commercial products 

• Open research challenges and future opportunities