Break-even distance for MVDC electricity networks according to power loss criteria

The medium voltage direct current (MVDC) technology is emerging in electricity networks including point-to-point transmission, distribution networks and collection networks for renewable energy sources. In this article the MVDC break-even distance (with respect to AC distribution) is calculated according to the overall energy efficiency criteria. The break-even distance is found to vary from less than 10 km to several tens of kilometres depending on power and voltage ratings and network topology.