Institute of Technology, Resource and Energy-efficient Engineering (TREE)

Energy

The topics of energy efficiency and renewable energies deal with the modeling and optimization of regenerative energy systems.

The research field of energy includes the topics of

Energy efficiency
Renewable energies
Efficient mobility

The topics of energy efficiency and renewable energies deal with the modeling and optimization of regenerative energy systems. The weather-related fluctuations in renewable energy production and the sector-specific requirements for the form, quantity and variability of the energy provided require a better understanding of the dynamics of cross-sector energy networks with integrated storage. The FF therefore deals with energy meteorological issues as well as with the investigation of energy cycles (natural gas, hydrogen, water/heat, electricity), which can range from a single household to supra-regional grids.

In the energy meteorological focus, photovoltaic systems are coupled with measuring devices for weather and solar power forecasts In this way, yield forecasts can be optimized. The generation of photovoltaic electricity is subject to weather-related fluctuations. Accurate forecasting of these fluctuations is a major challenge for the operation of power grids. To prevent grid bottlenecks in transmission and distribution grids, transmission and distribution grid operators can reduce the amount of electricity fed into the grid from photovoltaic systems, but the system operator must be informed of this no later than the day before. This is only possible with corresponding forecasts.

Another essential issue in the implementation of the energy transition is the storage of electrical energy generated from renewable sources for those times when wind and sunlight are not sufficiently available. The storage of electricity from renewable sources is now a serious hurdle to further, necessary expansion of generation and associated meaningful use. With the help of decentralized hydrogen storage, operational options for flexibility will be developed and demonstrated. Renewable energy producers such as wind turbines or photovoltaic systems are subject to seasonal and weather-related fluctuations. This requires a significant expansion of energy storage capacities. One possible solution is storage in the form of hydrogen, especially in metal hydride storage systems.

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The LEITNING project is researching a battery inverter that will enable the provision of a modular AC grid and grid support functions using advanced circuit topologies based on innovative SiC MOSFET power modules, magnetic devices and control strategies.

The topic of Efficient Mobility deals with efficient transportation alternatives, from the development of new methods for flow measurement to models for the expansion of the charging infrastructure and the acceptance of electric bicycles as part of sustainable individual mobility. It is not just the drive system that determines the efficiency of a vehicle. The shape and design are also crucial.

The laboratory equipment of the research field Energy: