Franc Smidt, Germany
Exclusively for FUTURUM Magazine
Direct current (DC) was the first type of electricity actively used for commercial purposes. In the 1870s–1880s, the American inventor Thomas Edison developed an electric lighting and power distribution system based on direct current. This technology revolutionized daily life by replacing gas lamps with electric lighting. However, due to limitations in long-distance transmission, DC was eventually supplanted by alternating current (AC), which was vigorously promoted by Nikola Tesla in collaboration with George Westinghouse.
Throughout the 20th century, alternating current dominated, but with the advent of new technologies in the 21st century, direct current has begun to regain ground. Modern demands for increased energy efficiency, decentralization of power generation, and integration of renewable energy sources have led to a re-evaluation of DC’s potential.
Reasons for the Shift to DC
The modern world faces growing challenges in the energy sector, including the need to improve efficiency, integrate renewable energy sources, and reduce carbon emissions. Direct current is regaining attention due to its unique advantages:
Energy Efficiency.
DC allows energy to be transmitted with minimal losses. High-voltage direct current (HVDC) lines exhibit significantly lower energy losses compared to traditional AC lines. Moreover, devices such as solar panels, batteries, and LEDs operate on DC, eliminating the need for dual energy conversion.
Growth of Renewable Energy.
Solar and wind power plants generate electricity in the form of direct current. This makes DC the natural choice for integrating these energy sources into power grids and supports the development of green energy.
Electromobility.
With the proliferation of electric vehicles, the importance of DC increases for faster charging and minimizing energy losses. Direct current is used in batteries and charging stations, which improves the efficiency of these processes.
Decentralization of Energy.
Local DC networks (DC microgrids) provide independence and resilience for power systems. They are ideally suited for residential homes, factories, and offices, creating new models of power supply.
Development of Intelligent Infrastructure.
DC is becoming an integral part of the operation of smart homes, offices, data centers, and IoT devices. This contributes to reduced costs, enhanced system reliability, and improved overall performance.
Examples of Implementation and Experience
Global practice confirms the potential of direct current in various fields:
High-Voltage DC Lines (HVDC):
In Europe, the NorNed line, which connects Norway and the Netherlands, transmits 700 MW of power via an underwater cable, demonstrating the high efficiency of the technology. In China, HVDC is widely used to connect remote solar and wind power plants with industrial regions.
Electromobility:
Companies such as Tesla have implemented DC charging stations, which have reduced the charging time for electric vehicles to 30 minutes, making their use even more convenient.
Smart Homes and Offices:
DC infrastructure is extensively used in the data centers of companies like Google and Facebook, helping to lower energy consumption and increase system resilience—a critical factor for large IT firms.
Data Centers:
Amazon Web Services (AWS) employs direct current to power its servers, thereby reducing energy losses and improving overall efficiency.
Challenges and Prospects
Despite its clear advantages, the transition to DC faces several challenges:
Technical Developments.
More efficient converters need to be developed, and DC must be integrated with existing AC networks to optimize the performance of hybrid energy systems.
Standardization.
The absence of international standards for DC applications complicates its widespread adoption. Developing uniform regulations will be a crucial step forward.
Infrastructure Financing.
High initial costs require the attraction of government subsidies and private investments to develop DC infrastructure.
Looking ahead, DC is expected to unlock new opportunities. Local DC microgrids will supply power to homes, factories, and offices. Direct current will form the basis for connecting solar and wind power plants, facilitating the transition to sustainable energy. Additionally, the development of transportation infrastructure—including the use of DC for electric vehicles and trains—will become a significant focus. Moreover, DC contributes to reducing the carbon footprint thanks to its higher energy efficiency.
Commercialization Models
For successful implementation of DC technologies, well-thought-out business models are necessary:
Technology Licensing.
Companies developing advanced converters, HVDC systems, and microgrids can license their solutions, creating new revenue streams.
Turnkey Product Development.
Products such as smart homes with integrated DC networks or charging stations for electric vehicles are in demand and possess high commercial potential.
Software Solutions.
The development of platforms for managing DC networks, data analysis, and monitoring opens additional opportunities for the digitalization of power systems.
Public-Private Partnerships.
Attracting investments for creating DC infrastructure in urban and remote regions will accelerate its deployment.
The Future of DC Technologies
The future of direct current technologies is tied to the decentralization of energy, the growth of intelligent infrastructure, and the transition to renewable energy sources. DC will become a key component of the global shift toward a sustainable energy system, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and affordability.
Moreover, with advancements in quantum computing and IoT, direct current will play a central role in powering new generations of devices and infrastructures. It is predicted that by 2040, DC networks will become the standard for intelligent systems and decentralized energy grids.
Once supplanted by alternating current, direct current is now coming back to the forefront. Its potential to boost energy efficiency, integrate renewable energy sources, and foster new technological developments makes DC a key technology for a sustainable future. Investments in developing DC infrastructure and standardization will open new opportunities for the economy, technology, and humanity as a whole.
GreenPioneer Fund
The GreenPioneer Fund is focused on renewable and safe energy, smart systems, and energy efficiency. It funds projects in the fields of solar, wind, hydrogen, and bioenergy across various countries, as well as developments in safe microreactors and energy storage, IoT, and smart grids. This sub-fund not only helps reduce CO₂ emissions but also supports the transition to an environmentally sustainable economy by providing practical solutions to combat climate change.
