LAUSR

Purpose This paper aims to propose a new configuration of a shunt active power filter (SAPF) connected with a photovoltaic (PV) system through a Z-source inverter (ZSI) topology. This topology ensures a single-stage operation and overcomes the limitations of the conventional two-stage operation topologies based on the DC–DC boost converter. The proposed system is designed for the purpose of reducing the total harmonic distortion of the source current by eliminating the current harmonics and exploiting the solar irradiation. Design/methodology/approach First, all the main parts of the proposed shunt active power filter are fully described in this paper, and then a PV system based on a Z-source inverter with a maximum power point tracking controller is used to exploit the solar irradiance and solve the problem of discharging of the direct current (DC) capacitor during the filtering process. Findings From the extensive simulation tests carried out using MATLAB/Simulink, the obtained results prove that the proposed shunt active power filter performs well despite several operation scenarios, including different load types and under abrupt irradiance. Originality/value A new shunt active power filter configuration has been proposed. This configuration benefits from the solar irradiation and overcomes the drawbacks of the conventional configurations by using the Z-source inverter instead of the voltage source inverter and DC–DC boost converter.