In a nutshell
Inter-oPEn deals with the safe and reliable operation of modern, power-electronic (PE) dominated, power systems. They investigate new means and methodologies to ensure PE assets interoperability.
To achieve such a goal, openness will be a pivotal factor across the different doctoral thesis, tackling fundamental aspects of modern PE-based electrical systems such as control, protection, interoperability, governance and intellectual property challenges.
More about the project organisation.
Background
In order to achieve decarbonation goals, the power grid is switching from passive to active components, relying on power electronics and digital controls. Every solar or wind harvesting unit, high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) power transmission, or electric-vehicle charging facilities rely on power electronics.
The interoperability of various, neighbouring power-electronic devices, from diverse manufacturers, each very secretive about their technology and methods is key to avoid adverse interferences and enable a safe and reliable of the future power grids.
The issue must be addressed at component level (modelling, effective & secured interfaces); system level (technical interactions, communication protocols); and regulatory level (common standards for manufacturers, rights & obligations of users).
Goals
Inter-oPEn is a unique doctoral programme that integrates multi-sectorial knowledge, gathering electrical engineering and legal researchers.
Its aims hence at developing science and technology as well as training experts for the industry.
Participants
Inter-oPEn gather 8 academic institutions and 15 associated partners.
The team consists of 10 doctoral fellows, 16 supervising researchers and 3 supporting staff.
Management
Inter-oPEn’s execution relies of course mostly on the doctoral fellows.
The scientific supervision is the duty of the Supervisory board.
All partners are represented in the advisory Stakeholders’ board. (Each associated partner is also in charge of a secondment period for a doctoral fellow.)
RWTH Aachen is in charge of the daily management and supervision, with the support of CRESYM for the dissemination and especially the long term exploitation of the results by the industry.
