Modular Multi-input Charging Hub for Construction – DC Charging Hub

Grid congestion is slowing down the transition to emission-free construction in the Netherlands. This project develops a modular DC charging hub that makes smarter use of existing electricity infrastructure.

Een gele graafmachine graaft een diepe sleuf in natte grond langs een betonnen muur onder een heldere blauwe lucht.

With this project, we demonstrate how existing electricity infrastructures can be used more intelligently. By connecting innovative DC technology to systems such as public transport traction networks, we create new opportunities for emission-free construction.

– Pepijn van Willigenburg, Project Manager

Introduction

Grid congestion is a major challenge for both the energy transition and the construction sector. Emission-free construction sites often struggle to secure sufficient charging capacity. This project develops a modular multi-input charging hub that can utilise existing electricity infrastructures, including public transport traction networks and the conventional electricity grid.

Project Background

The Netherlands faces a shortage of electricity grid capacity, making it increasingly difficult to meet the energy demands of emission-free construction equipment. The temporary nature of construction sites and the diversity of electric machinery further complicate this challenge. Innovative solutions are needed to make better use of existing infrastructure and support sustainable construction.

Objective

To develop a modular multi-input charging hub that unlocks charging capacity from existing electricity infrastructures for emission-free construction equipment.

Target Group

  • Public and private clients of construction projects
  • Contractors, construction companies, and consultants
  • Suppliers of materials and components

Method

The project develops a fully functional charging hub equipped with a 200 kW fast charger, multiple charging outlets, and a battery buffer. The hub can connect to various infrastructures, including public transport traction networks and the AC grid. Together with Heijmans Infra and HTM, the system will be tested and validated in a real-world environment.

Results

The project aims to deliver a fully operational demonstration model of the charging hub. During the demonstration phase, the partners will gain practical experience with charging emission-free construction equipment and using traction networks as an energy source. Safety aspects of emission-free construction sites will also be investigated.

Impact

By replacing fossil-fuel-powered construction equipment with emission-free alternatives, the project contributes to a significant reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions. Two example projects indicate a combined annual reduction of nearly 3,000 kilograms of NOx. The project also contributes new knowledge to the energy transition and the construction sector.

More Information

About Direct Current (DC):
https://topsectorenergie.nl/en/knowledge-base/direct-current-dc-in-the-built-environment/

Start and End Date

Start: 1 March 2024

End: 28 February 2026 (extension requested)

Funding

The project is funded through the SSEB scheme of the Dutch Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations.

More information:
https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/sseb

Collaboration

Project Consortium

  • Dynniq Energy
  • Centrica Business Solutions
  • DC Opportunities
  • Power Research Electronics
  • The Hague University of Applied Sciences
  • Heijmans Infra

Team

Research Group

  • Energy in Transition

Contact

Pepijn van Willigenburg
Project Manager
[email protected]