The 3rd Conference on DC Distribution Grids, organized by Forschungscampus FEN, RWTH Aachen University, and DC-Campus, took place successfully on April 16–17, 2026, in Aachen. With approximately 120 participants from over 10 countries, the conference once again demonstrated the strong and growing international interest in DC distribution grid technologies and their applications in future energy systems.
The conference was officially opened by Prof. Rik De Doncker, who set the stage for two days of intensive scientific exchange and discussion.
A series of keynote presentations followed, delivered by:
These contributions provided valuable insights from both academic research and industrial practice, forming a strong foundation for the subsequent discussions throughout the conference.
The technical sessions of the first day included:
Session 1: Economic Analysis and Technology Transfer
Session 2: Planning, Design and Control of DC Systems
Following the sessions, a poster session offered an interactive format for in-depth exchange on ongoing research, practical applications, and system developments in DC grid technologies.
In the evening, participants joined a guided city tour of Aachen and a visit to Aachen Cathedral, providing additional opportunities for informal networking and exchange.
The second conference day continued with keynote presentations by:
After the keynotes, the poster sessions resumed alongside a coffee break, further encouraging technical discussions among participants.
The program continued with:
Session 3: Protection, Technology Demonstration and Test Infrastructure
Session 4: Components of DC Grids
Both sessions addressed current challenges and developments in DC grid protection concepts, system validation, and key components. The discussions were characterized by strong engagement and valuable technical exchange.
The conference concluded with a closing session and outlook, summarizing key findings and highlighting future research directions and perspectives in the field of DC distribution grids.
The next edition will be organized by Hochschule Zittau/Görlitz (University of Applied Sciences).
📸 Fotos: Tom Richter, Nour Gafsi
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