Techno-economic and environmental comparative analysis for DC microgrids in households: Portuguese and French household case study

Abstract

This study revisits the use of the direct current (DC) distribution system concept in households to increase energy savings and potentially reduce costs and associated environmental impacts by comparing the impact of alternating current (AC) and DC distribution networks with today's trending appliances and highly efficient appliances. The study is based on environmental-economic modelling for various microgrid configurations with different DC load ratios and renewable energy capacities. An adaptive load profile based on initial assumptions is developed, the optimal distributed energy resource schedule is identified using DERCAM software, and the proper converters and system cabling are chosen. The converter's operation efficiency curve and dynamic consumption behaviours are examined for real-time sequential analysis for power flow loss. Two datasets from France and Portugal are used to explore the impact of different climate zones, socio-economic conditions and electricity prices on the configuration viability. The results show that DC solutions are efficient for large consumers in both countries, and current AC configurations are still cost-effective for medium consumers.