GridMaximizer
Decentralized Intelligence for Sustainable Distribution Networks
The project
With the expansion of renewable energy, the growth of electric mobility, and the increasing use of electric heat generators, the demands on electric distribution grids are rising. At the same time, photovoltaic systems, battery storage, charging stations, and other flexible consumers are creating new opportunities to balance generation and consumption locally.
The GridMaximizer research project is investigating how electrical distribution grids can be utilized more efficiently through decentralized, grid-state-based control. Instead of transmitting all measurement data to a central platform and making control decisions exclusively there, information from the local grid is used directly for on-site optimization.
The goal is a robust and scalable solution that makes better use of existing distribution grids without requiring extensive expansion of central communication and IT infrastructures. The decentralized architecture can also increase resilience, as local control functions can be maintained even when higher-level communication links are temporarily unavailable.
Possible application scenarios include, for example:
- grid-optimized control of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles,
- local coordination of generators, storage systems, and flexible consumers,
- the prevention of critical grid situations through early local responses,
- and better utilization of existing grid capacity as electrification increases.
A key focus of the project is communication between the individual components. GridMaximizer takes a technology-neutral approach in this regard. Depending on the operating environment, different communication channels—such as Powerline Communication (PLC) or wireless technologies—can be used and combined with one another. Open, IP-based interfaces enable the flexible integration of metering devices, control components, and energy management systems. This results in a modular architecture that can be adapted to different grid topologies and application scenarios. The solution developed in the project is being tested in a real distribution grid. The entire control chain—from the acquisition of local measurement values to the calculation of appropriate control measures and the control of flexible loads—is being examined under real-world conditions.
Project Partners
TH Köln
TH Köln is the project leader of the Gridmaxmizer project. It is developing the method for decentralized, grid-state-based optimization. Based on locally available measurement data, appropriate control measures are determined to reduce grid loads and make better use of existing grid capacity. A key focus is on an architecture in which decisions are made as close as possible to the respective grid section, thereby eliminating the need for continuous centralized processing of all measurement data.
devolo solutions GmbH
As an industry partner, devolo is developing the communication and system platform for connecting measurement, control, and optimization components as part of the project. This results in an open and modular communication architecture capable of integrating different transmission technologies. In addition to powerline communication, wireless communication channels can also be used. If necessary, the system can switch between different communication channels, thereby increasing the robustness of the connection. The required communication and software components are consolidated on an embedded platform within a modular microservice architecture. Standardized IP-based protocols and open interfaces enable the integration of various metering devices, energy management systems, and controllable loads. In field tests, devolo is evaluating the developed platform under real-world conditions and, in particular, examining the reliability of communication even in challenging communication environments within low-voltage networks.
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