Abstract: A power system connectable to an electric utility grid includes a local bus connected to at least one source of electrical energy; a connection to an electric utility grid; an inverter electrically interposed between the electric utility grid and the local bus, the inverter having an AC side and a DC side; a user-selectable switch electrically connected between the electric utility grid and the inverter, the switch having an open position and a closed position; and a local controller in communication with the inverter and the switch, the local controller configured to selectively open the switch to disconnect the power system from the electric utility grid and to selectively close the switch to reconnect the power system to the electric utility grid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a simplified method of controlling power among the various sources and loads in a power system. Power generating sources are each connected to a common DC bus through a converter. The converter selectively transfers energy to the DC bus at a maximum rate or at a reduced rate according to the level of the DC voltage present on the DC bus. At least one storage device is preferably connected to the common DC bus through a power regulator. The power regulator selectively transfers energy to or from the DC bus as a function of DC voltage level present on the DC bus. Further, an inverter may be provided to bidirectionally convert between the DC voltage and an AC voltage for connection to a customer load or the utility grid. Each power conversion device is independently controlled to provide a modular and simplified power control system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a simplified method of controlling power among the various sources and loads in a power system. Power generating sources are each connected to a common DC bus through a converter. The converter selectively transfers energy to the DC bus at a maximum rate or at a reduced rate according to the level of the DC voltage present on the DC bus. At least one storage device is preferably connected to the common DC bus through a power regulator. The power regulator selectively transfers energy to or from the DC bus as a function of DC voltage level present on the DC bus. Further, an inverter may be provided to bidirectionally convert between the DC voltage and an AC voltage for connection to a customer load or the utility grid. Each power conversion device is independently controlled to provide a modular and simplified power control system.