A power converter includes at least one leg (300) having a first string (302) operatively coupled to a second string (304) via a first connecting node (301) and a second connecting node (301). The first string includes a first branch (314) and a second branch (306) operatively coupled via a third connecting node (318). Each of the branches has a plurality of switching units (320, 324), a controllable semiconductor switch (322, 328) and the first connecting node and the second connecting node. The first string is operatively coupled across a first bus (306) and a second bus (308). Furthermore, the second string includes a plurality of controllable semiconductor switches (332, 334).