In recent years, several demonstration projects using dc microgrids have been implemented across the world due to some distinct advantages of dc over ac systems. The purpose of such initiatives is to validate the theoretically predicted benefits of dc distribution in practical scenarios. This chapter presents a noncomprehensive overview of existing demonstrations and pilot projects for a wide range of applications such as off-grid microgrids, transportation electrification, datacenters, residential and industrial purposes. For each application, key aspects such as architecture, components, control, protection and socioeconomic impacts are highlighted. A short discussion is offered on trends in voltage levels, capacity and topology, progressing toward possible standardization approaches based on recognized best practice.

Chapter Contents:

• 17.1 Introduction
• 17.2 Off-grid dc microgrids
• 17.2.1 Architecture
• 17.2.2 Components
• 17.2.3 Control and operational safety
• 17.2.4 Socioeconomic impact
• 17.2.5 Discussion
• 17.3 Transportation electrification
• 17.3.1 Shipboard dc microgrids
• 17.3.1.1 Architecture
• 17.3.1.2 Components
• 17.3.1.3 Power quality, control and protection
• 17.3.1.4 Economical operation
• 17.3.2 Railway traction with dc supply
• 17.3.2.1 Architecture
• 17.3.2.2 Components
• 17.3.2.3 Protection
• 17.3.3 Discussion
• 17.4 Datacenters
• 17.4.1 Architecture
• 17.4.2 Components
• 17.4.3 Protection and grounding system
• 17.4.4 Discussion
• 17.5 Residential and commercial dc buildings
• 17.5.1 dc House
• 17.5.1.1 Architecture
• 17.5.1.2 Components
• 17.5.1.3 Control
• 17.5.1.4 Protection
• 17.5.2 Building interiors
• 17.5.2.1 Architecture
• 17.5.2.2 Components
• 17.5.2.3 Control
• 17.5.2.4 Protection
• 17.5.2.5 Economics
• 17.5.3 dc Distribution grids
• 17.5.3.1 Architecture
• 17.5.3.2 Components
• 17.5.3.3 Control
• 17.5.4 Discussion
• References

Inspec keywords: distributed power generation; computer centres; transportation; standardisation; reviews; distribution networks

Other keywords: overview; datacenters; socioeconomic impacts; standardization; topology; pilot projects; residential projects; capacity; voltage levels; off-grid microgrids; industrial projects; dc distribution; protection; dc microgrids; transportation electrification

Subjects: Distribution networks; Transportation; Distributed power generation