Lab Tour on Low-Voltage DC Networks as Part of OVE DC Days 2026

02 March, 2026
As part of OVE DC Days 2026, the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien presented research infrastructure at the ENERGYbase site, and AIT presented research infrastructure: How can future DC supply networks be operated safely and efficiently? A new laboratory enables testing under realistic conditions and systemic analyses.
On February 23, 2026, a lab tour took place at the ENERGYbase of the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien as part of the OVE DC Days 2026. The event was organized in collaboration with the AIT (Austrian Institute of Technology). In two rounds, a total of around 40 people from industry and academia gained an insight into the current research infrastructure in the field of low-voltage direct current networks.
Laboratory for low-voltage direct current grids currently under construction
The presentation focused on the laboratory for low-voltage direct current grids currently under construction, which will enable practical testing of modern energy systems in a network. The core component is a modular DC microgrid with a bus voltage of 350 V, into which real generators, storage systems, and loads are integrated. Photovoltaics, a small wind turbine, battery storage, a bidirectional e-charging station, and an electrolyzer with storage are also integrated. This allows different operating states and system configurations to be investigated under realistic conditions.
A flexible test bench was also on display, which can be used to test both mechanical and power electronic protection concepts. The focus is on personal protection, line protection, and fault protection in the DC range. The setup includes interchangeable protection components, power electronic circuit breakers with fast tripping characteristics, and a configurable connection in the protection scheme. High-resolution measurement systems enable the precise recording of time sequences of electrical variables.
Interactions between generators, storage systems, and DC charging technology are analyzed
In addition, network reactions in the DC grid can be systematically recorded. Dynamic current and voltage curves, energy feed-back, harmonic components of power electronic converters, and interactions between generators, storage systems, and DC charging technology are analyzed. The laboratory thus combines the evaluation of individual components with integral system testing, creating a robust basis for the design, protection coordination, and operation of future DC supply networks.
Further Information:
OVE DC Day 2026: Direct current on the rise
AIT (Austrian Institute of Technology)
Faculty of Industrial Engineering – UAS Technikum Wien
ENERGYbase – UAS Technikum Wien





