The CONCORD project which stands for “Multiport power converter for cost-effective, resilient, secure, and environment-friendly Electrical-based Systems” led by a post-doctoral researcher, Levon Gevorkov has concluded with significant advancements in multiport power converter technologies, critical to enabling renewable energy integration. Focused on optimizing energy systems for the European Energy transition, the project’s final phase prioritized the development of dynamic simulation models and their real-world applications.

Building on foundational analysis of Europe’s energy landscape, the research refined multiport converter designs to enhance flexibility, efficiency, and scalability. A significant portion of the research work was dedicated to exploring the potential for integration of emerging technologies into the multiport converter framework. This includes Hydrogen Generation and Storage. The potential of hydrogen as a complementary energy vector was investigated, with a focus on its role in long-term energy storage and decarbonization. The simulation models were adapted to incorporate hydrogen production, storage, and utilization pathways, highlighting synergies with existing energy system. Second-life batteries were also explored. The use of repurposed batteries from electric vehicles was evaluated as a cost-effective and sustainable solution for energy storage. The simulations demonstrated how second-life batteries could be integrated into multiport systems to enhance grid stability and support renewable energy integration.

During the project period, the postdoctoral researcher completed professional development courses in workplace safety, IP management, and technology commercialization via CERCA and TECNIO programs. Participated in RIS3CAT Energy Community and XRE4S network events, further strengthening ties to Catalonia’s energy ecosystem. During the project, 8 open-access journal publications, and 6 conference papers were produced. The postdoctoral researcher will continue developing further research findings related to multiport converter technologies in an upcoming EU Horizon project AQUASOL which will be led by IREC.

This project has received funding from the postdoctoral fellowships programme Beatriu de Pinós, funded by the Secretary of Universities and Research (Government of Catalonia) and by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No. 801370.