DC Lighting is a Key Component of Optimized Microgrid Solutions” Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
DC (Direct Current) LED lighting adds sustainable value to DC and AC/DC Hybrid-powered projects, providing benefits unattainable by traditional AC lighting systems. “Direct-Coupling" DC lighting (DC-to-DC) to renewable power sources (solar, battery, wind) unlocks optimized grid resilient strategies for lighting reliability, energy cost & efficiency control, carbon reduction, and power load management. In Part 2 of this series of posts we will highlight more tangible and operationally logical benefits of using DC lighting.
BENEFIT #5: Renewables Compatibility
Renewable energy sources such as solar, battery storage, and wind are DC power sources, so DC lighting "Direct-Couples" with renewables without the need & cost for additional conversions or inversion equipment.
BENEFIT #6: Quality & Reliability
DC LED lighting produces consistent high-quality light with NO flickering or buzzing. DC lamps last significantly longer than AC lamps, reducing material & labor on replacement costs.
BENEFIT #7: Flexibility & Design
DC lighting systems provide greater flexibility in terms of design and installation. Lower voltage and reduced complexity allow for easier integration into remote areas, renewable projects, and DC distribution applications.
BENEFIT #8: Improved Safety
Low voltage DC lighting systems reduce the risk of electric shock and fire hazards. Additionally, DC power distribution eliminates the risk of arc flashes, reducing electrical fires, further enhancing overall safety of the system.