Deutsche Bahn has committed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions across the entire value chain to net zero by 2040. Renewable energy and new technologies are a key part of this. To research and test technologies and energy concepts under real-life conditions, DB operates a living lab – RealLabor Energie in Berlin.
The goal is to adapt DB’s energy system to the challenges of the energy transition. The RealLabor Energie plays a key role in this, providing the freedom of a lab environment while exposing technology to the real-life challenges of DB’s stationary facilities. Existing and new components are interconnected, such as photovoltaic systems, e-charging stations, and second-life battery storage systems.
Customized solutions for renewable energy
The RealLabor Energie is a group-wide initiative launched by DB Energie and DB Bahnbau Gruppe, with support from partners such as DB Systel. Together, they are creating the conditions for more sustainable energy supply at DB sites.
At the Markgrafendamm test site, a central showroom has been built. There, all components of the energy real lab are presented as an interconnected system, showing energy flows, interactions, and dependencies. Software solutions such as visualization and automation tools and intelligent meters – so-called smart meters – support this work.
The components of the RealLabor Energie at a glance
Second-life battery storage
The second-life battery storage system consists of 27 refurbished lithium-ion batteries from electric cars, storing renewable power generated on-site.
Photovoltaic carport
Solar power is generated on-site by PV modules installed on the carport roof, with a total capacity of 7.38 kWp.
Solar mover
The solar mover is an innovative PV module. The so-called "solar flower,” uses fan-shaped panels that follow the sun automatically, generating energy continuously.
Charging infrastructure
Three AC charging stations and one DC station have been installed. AC charging converts alternating current to direct current inside the vehicle, while DC charging performs the conversion directly in the station. A dedicated load management system optimizes charging performance and limits overall demand.
Low-voltage main distribution board
The low-voltage distribution board is the heart of the RealLabor Energie. It links all generation, storage, and consumption components and connects to the public grid. The system is designed to integrate future modules, while metering devices allow for testing different measurement concepts.
Hydrogen filling station
A 25-foot container houses a hydrogen fueling unit. Currently used for demonstration and training, it could later serve as a consumer of electricity, producing hydrogen via electrolysis and storing energy.
With these components, DB has created a so-called micro smart grid – an intelligent, closed power network in miniature – tested under real-life conditions. This allows green power to be generated, stored, and used directly on site. Centralized control and measuring systems ensure that the components work in harmony, balancing fluctuations across the network.
Step by step toward the energy transition
From planning to implementation, every step in building the RealLabor Energie is part of the testing process. The assembly and integration of each component already provide valuable experience for future operations. The next phase will test the control mechanisms between components based on the installed energy management system.
In the coming months, the micro smart grid will be expanded with new elements, including an additional battery storage unit and a fuel cell. In the medium term, DB plans to use smart, digital, and dynamic solutions to tackle the broader challenges of the energy transition even more sustainably across the Group.
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