The increasing use of distributed energy generation and storage has revived the idea of using low voltage DC (LVDC) electricity in local public and industrial networks as an extension to traditional AC distribution networks. Like AC grids, DC grids must fulfil power quality (PQ) limits to guarantee reliable operation and to ensure future customer confidence. However, knowledge about PQ in public DC systems and its impact on DC electricity metering is currently lacking, and so is the related metrology and standardisation. The work described in this paper addresses these issues by realizing traceable measurement and characterisation of PQ parameters to support standardization in the further development and future use of DC grids.

The research leading to the results described in this paper is performed within the 20NRM03 DC Grids project of the European Metrology Programme for Innovation and Research (EMPIR). The EMPIR initiative is co-funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and the EMPIR participating states.