Tech@Lunch - Distributing electricity in industry using Direct Current (DC)

The topic of the first Tech@Lunch session of 2023 is "Distributing electricity in industry using Direct Current (DC)". Since forever, electricity distribution in the manufacturing industry occurs via alternating current (AC). However, the consumers of that electricity are changing. Variable frequency drives are ubiquitous, local renewable energy generation and electric mobility are (becoming) the norm and battery electric storage is drawing attention. All these changes are fueled by the omni-presence of power electronic converters and they have a common denominator: an internal DC bus. Wouldn’t it be more effective then, to distribute electricity via direct current (DC) and interconnect directly at that DC-bus?

During this presentation, Jeroen Stuyts will elaborate on the progress Flanders Make and partners have made in developing a world-first industrial DC grid using technology available today. The presentation includes an overview of which benefits to expect on CAPEX and OPEX as well as some lessons learned on the construction and operation of the grid. After this presentation it should be clear that there is indeed an alternative to AC and how relevant that is to your situation today.