Optimized Power Conversion Using a Grid-Connected 5-Level Cascaded H-Bridge Multilevel Inverter

The growing integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid has accelerated the demand for efficient and high-quality power conversion systems. Multilevel inverters, particularly the Cascaded H-Bridge (CHB) topology, have emerged as a powerful solution to address these requirements due to their ability to produce high-quality voltage waveforms with reduced harmonic content. This paper presents the design and simulation of a grid-connected 5-level CHB multilevel inverter aimed at enhancing power quality while optimizing switching efficiency. The system is developed and analyzed using MATLAB/Simulink, with emphasis on harmonic distortion minimization, phase synchronization, and waveform accuracy. A phase-shifted pulse width modulation (PSPWM) technique is employed to control the switching of the inverter modules, ensuring effective voltage synthesis with minimal stress on power devices. Simulation results confirm the successful operation of the inverter with Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) well within IEEE-519 limits, validating its suitability for medium-voltage grid-tied applications. The study provides insights into the operational behavior of CHB inverters and highlights their potential for scalable and modular energy conversion in future smart grid infrastructures.