Key Results Achieved Over the Project Lifetime
Planning, Operation, and Automation
• Component Sizing Tool with open-data set (AIT; D3.2)
• Hybrid AC/DC data models for interoperability presented at IARIA Congress 2023 (AIT, ENG, RWTH Aachen)
• Simulation Tool for techno-economic analysis of Hybrid LV AC/DC grids; paper awarded at CIRED 2021 (AIT)
• PowerFactory simulation models developed for Terni demo use-case scenarios (AIT; D4.8)
• Feasibility study of MVDC hybrid grids at RWTH Aachen campus (RWTH Aachen; D4.6)
• Open reliability database structure (AIT; D5.5)
• Replication and scalability guidelines for Terni grid (ENG, ASM Terni, EATON, EMOT, 8.4)
Enabling Technologies, Automation, Protection, ICT and Cybersecurity
• SCiBreak’s 5kV hybrid MV DCCB: lab-tested and validated in Aachen (D3.1 D3.7 D3.5 D3.9)
• EATON’s solid-state 14kV MV DCCB prototype developed and tested (D3.6 D3.8)
• Synchronized/DC Measurement Unit by RWTH Aachen validated in Aachen and Terni (D3.10 D7.3)
• MVDC sensors by ZELISKO tested and implemented (D7.6)
• Control algorithms deployed at all 3 demo sites (RWTH Aachen, AIT, EPFL, EATON)
• Open FIWARE-based ICT platform with security layer and REASENS root cause analysis extension (ENG, AIT, RWTH Aachen, ASM Terni)
• Protection coordination report for hybrid LV AC/DC systems with comparative simulations (D8.5)
Swiss Demo (EPFL)
• Hybrid LV AC-DC microgrid in operation since 2022
• Active Front-End and Dual Active Bridge converters developed
• State estimation and optimal power flow algorithms deployed
• Resonant DC transformers, PV emulators, and supercapacitor integrated
• Results disseminated via 6 scientific papers
German Demo (RWTH Aachen)
• Demonstration of hybrid MVDC-MVAC-LVDC-LVAC grid operation (Sept 2023)
• External converter/switchgear control and unified communication concept implemented
• Improved LVDC breaker concept with adjustable thresholds
• Protection diode for MV IGBTs tested
• Joint converter operation with VILLAS RT simulator
• Successful integration of 5 kV SCiBreak breaker, Zelisko MVDC sensors, and open ICT platform
Italian Demo (ASM Terni)
• Full-scale DSO-operated hybrid LV AC-DC microgrid since 2024
• Integration of PV, 2nd-life battery, fast EV-charger, AC converters, and critical loads
• AIT DC-AC converter supports AC islanding
• Fully integrated with utility SCADA and real-time monitoring
• EMOT fast charger tested incl. V2G and cybersecurity
• Battery-powered AC charging operation in grid-forming mode
• RWTH Aachen SMU implemented as VILLAS node
• Eaton LVDC solid-state breaker tested
Business Models and Exploitation
• Four use cases analysed: self-consumption, energy communities, market optimization, DSO flexibility
• CBA shows up to 18% OPEX savings and 26% higher local self-consumption (Italian demo)
• Business model toolkit available for replication
Dissemination and Impact
• Active BRIDGE initiative participation and EU LVDC webinars
• Presentations at ENLIT 2022–2024, stakeholder workshops in Lausanne, Aachen, Terni, Vienna
• Policy input on LVDC standards, flexibility, and community rights shared with BRIDGE and DG ENER
• Joint activities and positioning paper with H2020 TIGON project