Practical Implementation of a Public LVDC Microgrid: Challenges and Experiences

The RE/SOURCED project aims to develop a circular, medium-sized, and self-sufficient energy system on the site of a former coal-fired power plant. The site is being redeveloped into a mixed-use area that retains its emphasis on energy production, now transitioning to renewable energy sources. At the core of the project is the implementation of a low-voltage DC (LVDC) microgrid that optimizes local energy generation, storage, and consumption, in line with circular economy principles such as material reuse and energy efficiency. The LVDC microgrid, built around a radial backbone connected to the public AC grid, represents the first installation of its kind in Belgium. While academic research has long highlighted the potential advantages of LVDC systems, practical real-world deployment remains limited, mainly due to the numerous challenges involved. This paper presents the key challenges encountered during the project as well as the lessons learned.