Techno-Economic Feasibility Analysis of LVDC System to Retrofit an Existing AC System: Case Study

This paper describes the proposal for a Low Voltage DC (LVDC) system for a lecture room in an educational institute in Kerala. Paper evaluates the feasibility for retrofitting an existing AC powered system with a new solar-powered LVDC system. At present, power is transmitted in AC form in transmission systems, and hence end-user loads are also powered by AC power. Using DC loads supplied by AC power requires the use of inefficient rectifiers. This proposed system generates DC power from solar panels installed on the rooftop, transmits it to the room in DC form itself, and is ultimately consumed by DC-powered fans and lights. The annual power and energy requirement of the room under consideration are observed and noted. An LVDC system is proposed to meet the required output. The economic feasibility has been evaluated using tools like a Simple Payback Period (SPP) and Net Present Value (NPV), considering the investments in solar panels, DC-powered loads and accessories.