A Scalable Testbed for Distributed Energy Management in DC Microgrids

The increasing reliance on renewable energy sources has intensified the need for efficient energy management systems (EMS) in DC microgrids. However, existing testbeds for EMS development suffer from limitations in modularity, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, restricting their practical applicability in research and education. This study proposes a novel, scalable, and cost-effective testbed for distributed EMS in DC microgrids, integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines (WT), and a battery energy storage system (BESS). The testbed incorporates a bidirectional controller for optimized power flow management and physically distributed controllers for real-time energy coordination. A co-simulation framework using MATLAB/Simulink validates the system’s performance under varying operational conditions. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate an improvement in power regulation efficiency by 90%, a 80% reduction in conversion losses, and enhanced voltage stability compared to conventional models. The proposed testbed provides a versatile platform for rapid EMS prototyping, bridging the gap between theoretical research and real-world implementation. Future work will focus on expanding smart grid functionalities and incorporating machine learning-based optimization techniques.