HIL Replication of DC-Based Hybrid Microgrids

This article describes the development and testing of a DC/DC converter dedicated to interface two LVDC microgrids. The converter based on a Dual Active Bridge (DAB) topology allows bidirectional energy transfer between Low Voltage DC energy distribution subsystems located within a building or a district. The power set point is delivered by an Energy Management System targeting optimal use of local energy resources and available energy storage. The converter is implemented in a fast-prototyping platform including inverter legs, EMC-filters, pre-charge circuits and an advanced programmable controller. A particular emphasis is put on protection circuits and schemes, taking into account that the converter is interfacing independent LVDC energy distribution systems working at different rated voltage, controlled by separate Active Front Ends (AFE). A HIL laboratory setup is ready for testing breakerless protection strategies developed in the frame of the TIGON project.