The need for reconfigurable DC electricity networks

Electricity network transformation has been in the forefront of research and industrial development for at least a decade. Multiple approaches have been proposed. The concept of Smart Grids has emerged in the beginning of this century, as a solution that would enable an ageing infrastructure to maintain its safe and cost-effective operation throughout the decades to follow. Large load and generation changes were forecasted, and making the power system adaptable, “smart” and highly controllable became some of the key goals. However, there are technologies that show great promise but have been receiving very little attention. One of those technologies is electricity distribution using Direct Current (DC), rather than the usual Alternating Current (AC). This document presents the key advantages of this technology, as well as the ways that it can be integrated into current Smart Grid efforts.