A Laboratory-Scale Prototype of a Smart User Network with DBS Control

Abstract

The paper presents the experimental results of a research project focus on the development of smart DC microgrids for residential applications. A single-phase laboratory-scale prototype of a DC microgrid, named by the authors Smart User Network, is illustrated in details. It is realized in the Laboratory of Electrical Energy Systems and Renewable Energy of University of Calabria. It can represent several type of users, such as consumers, producers and so-called prosumers (producer and consumer at the same time). For highly efficient integration, several type of micro sources, storage systems and loads are connected to the same DC bus and interfaced to LV grid via appropriate power converters. The power management of the Smart User Network is based on the DC bus signaling control logic to guarantee safe operation both in grid-connected that in stand-alone mode, as proposed by the authors in a previous paper. A technical description of the laboratory-scale prototype components and of the control concepts are reported. Experimental results from the operation of the laboratory-scale prototype demonstrates the validity of the DBS as decentralized control for DC microgrid highlighting all the necessary steps to shift the technology from laboratory-scale to real industry.