Renewable self-sufficient energy supply for smart devices in urban areas, Energy-Hub - case study

Electricity is part of the basic supply and is an important medium for providing basic functions. The demand for self-sufficient energy supply systems is growing in electrically untapped areas because of digitization, provision of ICT services and charging devices for ICT-components (tablets and smart phones) and electrified micro vehicles (e-bikes and e-scooters). The challenge is to compensate the volatile feed-in and seasonal availability of renewable energies ensuring sustainable power supply. The aim of this study was the specific conception and technical realization of a self-sufficient energy hub. The focus was on the design as a functional rest area and meeting place with energy supply for charging various electronic devices from smartphones to e-bikes. In addition to the requirements of system design and configuration, measurement technology and IT systems were integrated to use the E-Hub as a living lab for research and education and to scale and transfer the results for other requirements and projects. The paper includes planning and simulation methods as well as design and validation and will be continued with long term tests, system optimization and data evaluation.