1
Conversion losses
Solar panels and batteries provide direct current. In order to feed this energy into the AC grid, inverters are needed, which cause losses with each conversion from DC to AC or vice versa.
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direct current and alternating current
The power grid is full
In a world where we are increasingly relying on electricity, we are also becoming more dependent on the availability of this energy source. At the moment, many electricity networks are under great pressure due to the rapid increase in the number of electrical users and energy generating technology such as solar panels and wind energy. Because the demand for electricity has exceeded the capacity of the existing AC (alternating current) grid, an imbalance is created. This is also known as grid congestion. A second, local grid powered by direct current is a reliable and sustainable solution for this issue.
What is alternating current (AC)?
Alternating current is a form of electrical voltage in which the direction of the current continuously changes. This change usually occurs in a fixed pattern, such as a sine wave. In Europe, for example, the current changes direction 50 times per second, which we refer to as a frequency of 50 Hertz (Hz).
Alternating current is the standard form of electricity delivered to homes and businesses through the power grid. It is produced by generators in power plants and is ideal for transmitting electricity over long distances.
What is direct current (DC)?
Direct current is electricity that flows in one direction. Batteries, accumulators, and solar panels naturally provide direct current. This makes DC particularly suitable for many modern applications, such as electronics, electric vehicles, and energy storage.
The energy transition: a challenge for alternating current
The traditional AC network is designed for central generation of electricity, such as in coal-fired power plants or gas-fired power plants, with transmission over long distances to end users. Due to the energy transition, the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, is becoming increasingly important. This generation often takes place locally, directly in direct current. The energy transition and the resulting growing demand for electricity pose a number of challenges regarding the use of alternating current.
2
Network load
The large-scale return of energy to the AC grid causes peak loads. At the same time, the decrease in electricity consumption at certain times increases (for example, when we all want to charge our car batteries at home after work), leading to peak demand. This can lead to overloading of the AC network.
3
Complexity
Balancing supply and demand in an AC network becomes more challenging due to the increasing and variable output of renewable energy.
4
Grid congestion
Grid congestion occurs when the AC grid can no longer handle peaks in electricity demand and supply. As a result, generated energy sometimes cannot be fed back into the grid, leading to waste and long waiting lists for new grid connections or grid expansions.
The rise of direct current in microgrids
A solution for grid congestion
Microgrids are local networks in which energy is generated, stored, and used locally. They can operate independently or be connected to the larger electricity grid. In these grids, direct current is particularly appealing.
- Reduced conversion losses: Because solar panels, batteries, and many modern devices (such as LED lighting, computers, and electric vehicles) operate on DC, a DC microgrid can minimize the need for conversions. This significantly increases efficiency.
- Improved integration of renewable energy: Solar panels and batteries naturally operate on direct current. By using a DC network, this energy can be used or stored directly.
- Lower burden on the traditional grid: Microgrids with DC can balance local demand and supply, reducing pressure on the central electricity grid. This can help reduce grid congestion.
ALTERNATING CURRENT (AC)
- Constantly changes direction
- Conversion loss in renewables
- Suitable for large-scale transport
- Traditional applications
- Transformers and inverters required
DIRECT CURRENT (DC)
- Flows in one direction
- Less conversion losses
- Ideal for local networks
- Modern applications
- Lower costs due to less conversion
Direct current in the energy transition
Higher efficiency
Less energy loss due to direct connection with solar panels and batteries.
Lower CO2 emissions
Less conversion losses contribute to a more sustainable energy system.
Simpler design microgrids
DC makes it easier to use and store renewable energy locally.
Support electric vehicles
Electric vehicles operate on DC and can easily be integrated into a DC microgrid.
Direct current: the future of energy supply
Although alternating current is still the backbone of our traditional electricity grid, the role of direct current is growing thanks to the energy transition. Local microgrids operating on DC can help to more efficiently utilize renewable energy and relieve the grid. By reducing dependence on conversions and better integrating batteries and solar panels, direct current can play a key role in a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
Want to learn more about the possibilities of your own DC microgrid?
Reliable and sustainable direct current microgrid solutions for a changing energy landscape.
Ei•dcgrid is Current/OS compliant
The DC microgrid of Elektro Internationaal follows the open protocol for direct current applications.
Ei•dcgrid is powered by
Elektro Internationaal B.V.
Pompmolenlaan 17
3447 GK Woerden
The Netherlands
+31 348 420540
info@ei-woerden.nl
www.elektrointernationaal.com
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