Faced with the problems such as the traditional Z-source NPC three-level inverter is incompetent to lift voltage, it has rather high stresses response to capacitances voltage and demands a large number of clamping diodes. This paper puts forward a new high gain Z-source T-type three-level inverter topology and a carrier opposite pulse wide modulation (COPWM) strategy. By introducing step-up units into the traditional Z-source network, this topological structure enhances its capability of boost-buck voltage and broadens its range of the modulation ratio; and under the condition of the same output voltage gain, it can reduce stresses response to capacitances voltage effectively. Moreover, the more the step-up units connected, the more stronger the capability of buck-boost of the inverter is; this new topology is free of clamping diodes, so it is more simpler. The correctness and validity of the proposed new topology and modulation strategy are proved by simulation study.