A synchronous and bi-directional power conversion module (140) for use in a variable frequency power conversion system (100) comprises a first input/output side (142) for AC power input/output and DC power source input; a second input/output side (144) for DC link connection; and an active power switching arrangement (Q1 Q6), which is controlled by a gating pattern to perform multi-mode power conversion. The active power switching arrangement (Q1 Q6) is controlled to convert DC link voltage from the DC link connection (144) to an AC load supply voltage during a forward power mode; convert AC input power from the first input/output side (142) to a regulated DC link voltage during an AC source input, reverse power mode; and convert DC input power from the first input/output to a regulated DC link voltage during a DC source input, reverse power mode.