Graz, 10/04/2025 – DC grids are already used in industrial applications and pilot lines in Europe; however, their innovation potential extends far beyond that, especially in the areas of power converters, control algorithms, grid stability and energy management. Our researchers focus on these topics within the new, large-scale research project DC-MicroGrid.  

Energy efficiency and CO₂ reduction: progress for the environment 

Compared to common AC grids, DC grids offer decisive advantages in terms of energy and resource efficiency, significantly contributing to reducing carbon emissions. In the project, we will drive this progress forward with new developments and secure a technological competitive advantage for the partners involved. There are various application possibilities in renewable energy, manufacturing companies or small businesses.  

“DC technologies develop at a rapid rate. With this project, we significantly contribute to ensuring the competitiveness of Europe”, explains Thomas Langbauer, technical lead of the DC-MicroGrid project.  

“The project complements SAL’s research strategy and allows us to strengthen and expand our competencies in a future-oriented area”, adds project leader Ulrich Gaier.  

Strong partners for a future-oriented research topic 

Besides Silicon Austria Labs, the project consortium is comprised of several renowned companies and research organizations, among them DEIF Wind Power Technology Austria GmbH, Fronius International GmbH, Infineon Technologies Austria AG, KONČAR, Johann Lasslop GmbH Induktive Bauteile, Nidec Global Appliance Austria GmbH, Terma Technologies GmbH, Tridonic GmbH & Co. KG, Graz University of Technology, Kite Rise Technologies GmbH and AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH.   

The project was kicked off in March 2025 and is running until February 2029. With a total project volume of approximately 8.42 million EUR, it is the biggest cooperative SAL research project so far – a clear indicator of the high relevance of this topic.  

About Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) 

Silicon Austria Labs GmbH (SAL) was founded in 2018 as a top non-university research center in the field of Electronics and Software Based Systems. At its locations in Graz, Villach and Linz, research is conducted on key technologies in the fields of Microsystems, Sensor Systems, Power Electronics, Intelligent Wireless Systems and Embedded Systems. SAL brings together key players from industry and science and thus valuable expertise and know-how, and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain. The aim is to accelerate the value creation process from idea to innovation – with excellent research and economic benefits. Owners are the Republic (50.1%), the Provinces of Styria and Carinthia (10% each), the Province of Upper Austria (4.95%) and the Association for the Electric and Electronics Industry (24.95%). 

Press Contact:  

Isabella Preuer, BA BA MA 
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+43 664 832 97 73 

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www.silicon-austria-labs.com/presse