Distributed Generation Microgrids Must be Predominantly DC to Succeed

Users of a ‘microgrid’ - a system that supplies and manages power for a physical entity such as a store or factory - would be better off if most of the power used was direct current (DC) electricity generated locally, argues Paul Savage. When it comes to Direct Current (DC), confusion reigns about where to draw the line around the concept of a microgrid. For utilities, the idea is a subset in the system, encompassing many customers. For customers, it is often all the equipment on their side of the meter. For regulators, it is an issue that needs definition due to the pressing need to get the most out of DC for the benefit of the entire system. Read More...