Given the advantages of DC microgrids
and their growing ability to handle challenges, DC power is gaining traction across
several sectors, three of which are highlighted below:
- Factory automation.
Factory automation systems such as machines, robots and control systems benefit
significantly from a shared DC grid by reducing energy losses and simplifying
power distribution. In production environments with robots, lifts and conveyor
belts, regenerative braking introduces a primary advantage over AC systems,
where brake energy dissipates thermally. Early results from model installations
in the automotive industry suggest significant energy savings, highlighting DC
microgrids as a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for modern factory
operations. [6] In November 2024 the German VDE released the “System Description
DC-INDUSTRIE” under VDE SPEC 90037 that gives detailed overview DC grids
in the context of industrial applications.[2]
- Data centers. Data centers
are among the most energy-intensive facilities, and depend heavily on an
uninterrupted power supply. A DC-powered data center enhances power efficiency
by reducing the number of AC/DC power-conversion and power factor correction
(PFC) stages, and reduces problems associated with harmonics. Moreover, these
systems increase the reliability of power distribution by as much as 200%,
making DC microgrids a more reliable, cost-effective and sustainable solution.
[8] [9]
- Building automation and lighting. DC microgrids offer substantial
advantages in building automation, especially for LED lighting systems, which
inherently run on DC power. Furthermore, typical loads in building
infrastructures such as HVAC systems and appliances also benefit from optimized
power distribution and battery-buffered energy consumption. [7] Beyond the building infrastructure itself, most household electronics, such
as computers, televisions and chargers, are already DC loads, opening up further
potential for optimization.