Novel current control for climate neutral energy infrastructure

ongoing

Low Voltage DC power systems are one of the most promising technologies for a clean and efficient energy transition, especially for local generation and storage. However, safety considerations prevent rapid adoption of the proposed solutions. Our project aims at developing new current limiting (CL) technology, based on high-mobility materials and the extraordinary magnetoresistance (EMR) effect, as well as their integration into Direct Current (DC)-and hybrid AC/DC microgrid infrastructures. A system design approach will be adopted to find device layouts suitable for five selected use-cases: native DC-supply loads, battery systems, photovoltaic, microgrids and bidirectional EV Supply Equipment (EVSE) to enable the V2X (focus on V2G) technology deployment. The devices are fabricated and tested for proof of concept. The potential of this technology is further evaluated by simulation means aiming at standardization, and the development of DC- and hybrid microgrids steady state operation strategies. The proposed research results in passive, multifunctional, more robust, and safer CL devices for DC applications, with reduced cost, size, and environmental footprint, when compared to the state-of-the-art. Our technology can be a breakthrough for circuit protection, aiming at demonstrating through end-to-end, design-to-application innovation (design supported by LCA guidance, simulation, fabrication, and lab-based testing) that a comprehensive, advanced solution encompassing EMR-enabled current limiting devices, can meet the current needs of the DC microgrid market. It can establish European industrial leadership with a technology that is critical for the on-going energy transition which makes it a suitable goal for the European Green Deal.