Real-time Power Systems Lab

Information about the laboratory

The Real-time Power Systems Lab at the Institute of Automation (IAT), University of Bremen, serves as a versatile test platform for real-time Power-Hardware-in-the-Loop (P-HIL) and Control-Hardware-in-the-Loop (C-HIL) simulations. It is dedicated to research and development in modern energy systems with a strong focus on advanced control algorithms, optimization in energy management and digitalization of smart grids. The lab supports comprehensive studies of cellular-based power systems, active distribution networks, microgrids, and flexible energy systems. Equipped with a four-quadrant power amplifier (15 kVA, DC to 150 kHz), programmable DC sources, advanced measurement equipment and real-time simulation tools (e.g., OPAL-RT, Typhoon HIL), it enables dynamic testing of controllers, power electronics, battery systems, PV systems and distributed energy configurations. Current developments include extending the infrastructure to integrate grid-tied battery systems, electrolyzer and fuel cell systems (2026), alongside a power amplifier expansion up to 300 kVA. The laboratory is a hub for R&D industry collaboration on innovative technologies such as digital twins, advanced harmonic load control, and flexible AC distribution systems. It plays a key role in supporting research in: Real-time P-HIL testing and validation, automation technologies for energy systems, power quality (harmonics) analysis and mitigation, and integration of storage and conversion systems into resilient future energy networks.

This laboratory is part of the Bremer Forschungszentrum für Energiesysteme (BEST). For an overview of the other laboratories of BEST, click here.