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Towards Intelligent DC-based hybrid Grids Optimizing the network performance

Project description

Novel technologies and tools are directing attention to improved power grid architectures

Alternating current (AC) has dominated power grids historically, in part because conventional generators naturally output AC, and the devices at the end of the line are designed for AC input. Renewable energy sources are increasingly replacing generators, and direct current (DC) technologies such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems are growing. Therefore, it makes more and more sense to begin switching to more efficient, reliable and sustainable DC-related technologies. The EU-funded TIGON project is developing a comprehensive portfolio of power electronics, management software and tools supporting optimised and intelligent DC-based hybrid grids. Outcomes will be demonstrated in a variety of applications including the railway sector.

Objective

DC grids attractiveness has been increased in the last years due to the high proliferation of renewable energy sources together with the increase in DC loads (electronics, LED lighting, electric vehicles, energy storage…). The main drivers behind this paradigm shift are related to the improved efficiency, flexibility, security and reliability DC grids may provide, thus increasing the sustainability of the energy distribution system. However, there is a need for demonstration of DC technologies and grid topologies so that these solutions are able to evolve from a promising solution for the future smart grids to a commercially available technological option.
Under this context, TIGON aims to achieve a smooth deployment and integration of intelligent DC-based grid architectures within the current energy system while providing ancillary services to the main network. To do so, TIGON proposes a four-level approach aiming at improving 1) Reliability, 2) Resilience 3) Performance, and 4) Cost Efficiency of hybrid grids through the development of an innovative portfolio of power electronic solutions and software systems and tools focused on the efficient monitoring, control and management of DC grids. These solutions will be demonstrated in two main Demo-Sites located in France and Spain, while additional use cases in the residential and urban railway sectors will act as niche markets for analysing and further solidifying the replication of TIGON developments after the project’s end.
TIGON has involved for this purpose a multidisciplinary team of 15 partners from 8 different European Member States with a well-balanced consortium integrated by 7 non-profit entities and 7 companies. This partnership provides the required expertise from fields such as power electronics, cybersecurity, standardisation, etc. to design the solutions proposed within TIGON as well as the industrial capabilities required for the manufacturing, integration and validation of the whole TIGON concept.

Call for proposal

H2020-LC-SC3-2018-2019-2020

See other projects for this call

Sub call

H2020-LC-SC3-2020-EC-ES-SCC

Coordinator

FUNDACION CIRCE CENTRO DE INVESTIGACION DE RECURSOS Y CONSUMOS ENERGETICOS
Net EU contribution
€ 1 880 531,25
Address
PARQUE EMPRESARIAL DINAMIZA, AVDA. DE RANILLAS, 3D
50018 Zaragoza
Spain

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Region
Noreste Aragón Zaragoza
Activity type
Research Organisations
Links
Total cost
€ 1 880 531,25

Participants (15)