Coordinator: Helko E. van den Brom

The implementation of LVDC grids brings many challenges and unknowns which are predominantly measurement related. Among these measurement challenges are current and voltage ripple, inrush currents, voltage fluctuations, short circuit events and other power quality (PQ) issues. PQ is well established in traditional AC grids, however widely accepted and standardised methods for measuring PQ aspects for DC metering or PQ measurement methods for DC grids are not currently available.

In order to fully appreciate LVDC PQ issues, it is advantageous to capture dynamic voltage and current signals in real LVDC grids for analysis. Having first identified which parameters should be considered when assessing DC power and DCPQ for LVDC grids, it is necessary to design and build on-site measurement equipment and to capture dynamic voltage and current signals in real LVDC grids.  To cover typical LVDC grid working conditions, voltage, and current levels up to 1 kV and several hundreds of amperes, respectively, are required.  This on-site measurement equipment should have a target uncertainty below 0.1 %, taking into account the presence of AC ripple and other disturbances. Having built, tested, and calibrated this equipment, a series on on-site measurements in real LVDC grids will provide measurement data that can be used to understand the PQ environment and consider the consequences for grid operators and define the LVDC EMC environment for manufacturers of consumer products.

For more information, see the project webpage >>