Imagine a universal power adapter for a city's electrical grid that can handle solar panels, batteries, and home appliances all at once. Instead of having separate boxes for every different type of power source, this system uses one smart hub to manage everything. It keeps the electricity flowing smoothly and prevents the grid from getting overloaded as we add more green energy.
Distribution grids are struggling to integrate high volumes of renewable energy and batteries without causing congestion or requiring expensive new power lines. There is also a lack of efficient ways to connect mixed AC and DC loads at different voltage levels.
A new generation of multiport converters for low and medium voltage, including hardware designs, control strategies for grid stability, and an optimization method for where to place them in a network.
If you are a DSO dealing with grid congestion due to too many solar installations — this project developed multiport converters that allow massive integration of renewables while avoiding the need to build new power lines.
If you are a developer dealing with unstable connections to the local grid — this project developed grid-forming controls and multiport hardware that ensure a stable and secure connection for your energy storage and generation assets.
If you are an integrator dealing with a mix of AC and DC machinery and energy sources — this project developed low and medium-voltage converters that connect different voltage levels in one system to improve efficiency.
Based on available project data, specific pricing for the hardware is not provided; however, the project includes an economic impact analysis to assess the financial viability of the solution.
The project has developed simulation models and experimentally validated hardware in laboratory settings using CHIL methods, but it has not yet reached full industrial scale deployment.
Based on available project data, there is no specific mention of licensing terms, though the consortium includes 3 industrial partners who helped define requirements.
The project reviewed grid codes and standards for multiport power converters at low and medium voltages to ensure the designs align with regulatory requirements.
The project period runs from 2022-09-01 to 2025-08-31, indicating that final results and validations are expected by August 2025.
The consortium is well-balanced for technology transfer, featuring a 38% industry ratio with 3 companies and 2 SMEs. This ensures that the 4 universities and 1 research center are developing solutions based on real-world requirements and case studies provided by industrial partners across 5 countries.
Contact the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya regarding the iPLUG project results.
Contact SciTransfer to connect with the iPLUG consortium for licensing or pilot opportunities.
