Paramount importance of using distributed extra-low direct current voltage in the built environment

Abstract

If solar panels and wind turbines can generate direct current (dc) voltage, and all electrical and electronic loads can operate directly off dc voltage, why is the distribution network within the built environment an alternating current (ac) system? In a world where carbon footprint is in focus, why are systems dc–ac–dc and not dc–dc–dc? Historically, voltage drop and therefore the need for larger gauge wiring were seen as technical and economic barriers to extra-low dc voltage systems. However, prices and power needs have lowered, it is now technically and economically feasible to use dc systems for the built environment. Such systems can provide energy independence and energy security. Examples of niche usage of solar photovoltaics that are providing electricity in the developing world are used to show that distributed dc voltage can have direct positive impacts on many of the UNs, sustainability development goals. Given the advantages of distributed dc electricity systems over centralised ac systems, it is concluded that policy makers and NGOs have to take on board dc as a sustainable solution to help the billions of people that either are not connected to electricity or use fossil fuels that are adversely effecting there health.

Keywords

• sustainable development
• photovoltaic power systems
• wind turbines
• solar cell arrays
• power generation economics
• DC power transmission
• alternating current system
• voltage drop
• technical barriers
• economic barriers
• extra-low dc voltage systems
• distributed dc voltage
• direct positive impacts
• distributed dc electricity systems
• centralised ac systems
• solar panels
• electrical loads
• electronic loads
• distribution network
• distributed extra-low direct current voltage
• wind turbines
• solar photovoltaics