Multilevel modulation

A method for controlling a multilevel converter comprising a plurality of energy sources and a plurality of power converter modules, each power converter module comprising at least two switching elements, the method comprising:

• assigning, based on at least one variable parameter, a first number (N) of the plurality of power converter modules to a first group;
• assigning, based on the at least one variable parameter, a second number (M) of the plurality of power converter modules to a second group;
• providing a first reference signal for controlling a switching state of each of the first number (N) of the plurality of power converter modules assigned to the first group and a second reference signal for controlling a switching state of each of the second number (M) of the plurality of power converter modules assigned to the second group;
• controlling the switching state of each of the first number (N) of the plurality of power converter modules assigned to the first group by applying a first switching pattern to the first number (N) of the plurality of power converter modules for generating a first output signal;
• and
• controlling the switching state of each of the second number (M) of the plurality of power converter modules assigned to the second group by applying a second switching pattern to the second number (M) of the plurality of power converter modules for generating a second output signal;
• wherein the first switching pattern is different than the second switching pattern.