SiENE - Project HibroM sets a new standard for mobile energy supply in demanding conditions

Operating in remote, exposed, or unstable areas requires energy solutions that are robust, self-sufficient, exceptionally adaptable, and reliable – even under the most unpredictable conditions. The key to successful operation in such environments lies in smart microgrids – advanced local energy systems that can function both in connection with the public grid and entirely independently in so-called island mode.

A significant technological breakthrough in this field is represented by the HibroM project, which integrates various innovative microgrid components into a unified, centrally managed system. The result is an intelligent grid that automatically responds to current user needs and dynamically adjusts energy flows for optimal performance.

A key advantage of the solution is its strong user orientation – even in the most complex and critical environments, it ensures simple, transparent, and reliable operation.

The HibroM smart microgrid is more than just a collection of advanced technologies – it is a comprehensive, intelligently managed system. It automatically adapts energy flows to user needs using a digital twin, IoT sensors, and optimisation algorithms for load balancing and integrating renewable sources. Particular emphasis is placed on cybersecurity, reliability, and system flexibility, mainly as these systems must operate under the demanding conditions of dual-use scenarios.

The HibroM smart microgrid is more than just a collection of advanced technologies – it is a comprehensive, intelligently managed system. It automatically adapts energy flows to user needs by using a digital twin, IoT sensors, and optimisation algorithms for load balancing and integrating renewable sources. Particular emphasis is placed on cybersecurity, reliability, and system flexibility, mainly as these systems must operate under the demanding conditions of dual-use scenarios.

Selectable Operating Modes Based on Current Base Needs

Although the HibroM smart grid connects complex components behind the scenes, it offers users intuitive, straightforward, and dependable control. A key advantage is the ability to select operating modes according to the base's needs, from silent night mode and eco mode to high-performance operation. The user can easily adjust the system to the base's current requirements by selecting a mode via a portable control unit.

Behind these modes, advanced monitoring and control systems continuously optimise performance in a centralised manner. The control system prioritises energy use from the diesel generator, battery pack, or external electrical grid, depending on the selected mode. This way, HibroM introduces a new level of mobile energy supply: rugged in build yet intuitive to operate. With a central control unit and digital twin, the entire system – composed in its basic configuration of a hybrid generator, battery set, and smart distribution cabinet, can be managed and monitored from a single interface. The system also actively tracks consumption and operational performance.

Consortium Partners Overcoming Interoperability Challenges

The HibroM project is a cutting-edge initiative focused on developing smart hybrid microgrid solutions, rooted in multidisciplinary collaboration among a diverse group of consortium partners. This collaborative model enables accelerated prototyping, efficient knowledge transfer, and adaptation to real-world operational needs, reflecting the dynamic challenges of both civil and defence environments.

The project is led by TECES, with component development carried out by partners ROBOTINA d.o.o., TAB d.d., and STUBELJ d.o.o., alongside subcontractors TPV Prikolice d.o.o., SMARTIS d.o.o., the University of Ljubljana's Faculties of Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, and the University of Maribor's Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

The project was conducted under the National Strategic Programme PamPIK and the SiEnE partnership and was commissioned by the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Slovenia. The key objective is to develop solutions that contribute to strengthening the resilience of the Slovenian and European defence sectors while supporting the integration of Slovenian partners into international defence value chains.

Although the project is still underway, it has attracted significant interest from experts and the general public. Upon completion, it is expected to serve as a reference model and a basis for the broader implementation of smart microgrids in Slovenia and abroad.