TT&MS supplies Itech solution for PV inverter research at the HAN University of Applied Sciences

TT&MS supplied a test setup for research and education in the field of converter technology and grid integration for the HAN University of Applied Sciences in Arnhem and Nijmegen. The energy transition requires reliable, accurate, and flexible test instrumentation — exactly what this configuration excels at.

The setup, as shown in the photo, forms a compact but very powerful environment in which students and researchers can simulate realistic grid and solar panel conditions. This now makes it possible to extensively analyze inverters, energy storage systems, and other power electronics without being dependent on the weather or the vagaries of the electricity grid.

Regenerative Grid Simulator

At the heart of the installation is an Itech IT7909P-350-90, integrated into a 15U rack. This regenerative grid simulator can simulate the behavior of the electricity grid extremely realistically. Instead of relying on a real grid connection, the IT7909P creates a fully controlled test environment in which voltage, frequency, and grid quality can be accurately simulated.

The system can simulate virtually any grid condition: from slight voltage fluctuations to deep dips, harmonics, phase shifts, and complete grid disturbances. This makes it possible to test behavior that is difficult to reproduce in practice—essential for research into PV inverters, ESS systems, and EV charging technology.

Solar Array Simulator Modules

In addition to the grid simulator, the setup consists of eight Itech IT-N2123 modules. These programmable DC sources behave like realistic solar panel simulators and give students and researchers fine-grained control over voltage, current, and IV curves.

The IT-N2100 series can accurately simulate how solar panels respond to varying irradiance, temperature, or shade. This allows MPPT algorithms, charge controllers, and DC-DC converters to be tested under fully reproducible conditions. The modules also function as high-quality DC power supplies, making them ideal for use in both R&D environments and production testing.

A powerful learning and research environment

Together, these instruments form a versatile and future-proof test environment for simulating inverter behavior, analyzing efficiency, and investigating interactions with the electricity grid. This enables HAN to take both education and applied research to a higher level—exactly what is needed to prepare the next generation of engineers for the energy technology of tomorrow.

For TT&MS, this is a great example of how we support educational institutions with high-quality testing and measurement solutions. We are proud that our instrumentation contributes to innovation, knowledge development, and the energy transition.

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