Low Voltage DC Grids

Most electrical devices operate on direct current (DC) internally, but are supplied by alternating current (AC). A power supply with DC allows omitting the rectifier electronics, which makes the devices simpler, more reliable and generates less power losses. This publication aims to show solutions of DC operated professional buildings like offices or supermarkets and homes. A realized office test bed including DC light emitting diode (LED) illumination and photovoltaic (PV) support is presented as well as a detailed concept for a DC operated home. Based on these reference cases, the specifications of the components for those applications are derived and the saving potentials in material and power losses for different use cases are illustrated.