Powering the Smart Building: Why a Hybrid AC/DC Approach is the Pragmatic Future
By Robert Kroon
A hybrid approach to enhance your electrical system for energy savings and additional access points is a practical and sensible way to proceed.
The discussion around Direct Current (DC) power in commercial buildings is gaining momentum, fueled by its potential for enhanced energy efficiency and seamless renewable energy integration. However, a common concern in the industry is whether embracing DC necessitates a costly and disruptive rip-and-replace of existing Alternating Current (AC) infrastructure.
The reality is far more pragmatic: the future of building power lies in a hybrid AC/DC approach, particularly when considering the practicalities of building retrofits.
Debunking the Myth: AC Isn't Going Anywhere (Especially in Retrofits)
It's important to emphasize that transitioning to a direct current (DC) system does not require the complete dismantling of your current alternating current (AC) setup. For many building retrofits, fully removing and replacing existing AC wiring and equipment can be cost-prohibitive and logistically complex.
The true advantage of a hybrid model lies in its practicality and flexibility; it allows you to strategically incorporate DC technology in areas where it is most advantageous while still retaining and utilizing the existing AC infrastructure, which may very well remain effective and functional. This approach not only minimizes disruptions to your operations but also optimizes energy efficiency and cost savings, blending innovation with the reliability of established systems.
The Smart Synergy: A Practical Path Forward
A hybrid AC/DC system offers a sensible and cost-effective evolution of a building's power infrastructure:
Leveraging Existing Investments: Retrofitting with a hybrid system allows building owners to maximize the lifespan and return on investment of their existing AC systems. Instead of a complete overhaul, DC infrastructure can be introduced incrementally.
Targeted DC Implementation: DC can be strategically implemented in specific areas or for particular loads where its benefits are most significant. For instance, a retrofit might involve installing a DC microgrid to power new, energy-efficient LED lighting and integrate a rooftop solar array, while the existing AC system continues to supply power to HVAC and other legacy equipment. Additionally, fault-managed power systems can be used to enhance electrical capacity.
Minimizing Disruption: A phased hybrid approach minimizes disruption to building occupants and operations during retrofits. Installing new DC circuits and equipment can often be done alongside existing AC systems without requiring extensive downtime.
Cost-Effective Scalability: Building owners can start with a smaller DC implementation and scale up over time as budgets allow and the benefits become clearer. This phased investment aligns better with typical capital expenditure cycles.
Agile Workplaces: A Prime Use Case for Pragmatic Hybrid Solutions:
In an office building retrofit, providing AC power to every workstation can be costly. The system shown above is an August Berres charging solution designed for 24 batteries. By using a single AC outlet, you can store enough energy during off-peak hours to power 24 workstations.
The flexibility demanded by Agile Workplaces makes a pragmatic hybrid approach particularly appealing for retrofits:
Adding DC Where Needed: As spaces are reconfigured and new, predominantly DC-powered devices are introduced, DC outlets (like USB-C) and low-voltage DC distribution can be integrated into new or retrofitted agile furniture without impacting the existing AC infrastructure.
Future-Proofing Incrementally: Retrofitting with a hybrid approach allows buildings to incrementally future-proof their power infrastructure to accommodate the increasing adoption of DC technology without a massive upfront investment.
Agile Furniture: Practical Integration of Hybrid Power
Modern agile furniture exemplifies this pragmatic approach in retrofits:
Easy Addition of DC: Furniture incorporating built-in USB-C receptacles can seamlessly enhance existing spaces that utilize traditional AC power. This innovative integration allows users to conveniently power their devices without separate chargers or power strips, reducing clutter. Whether it's a stylish desk with embedded charging ports or a comfortable sofa equipped with USB-C outlets, these solutions transform how we interact with technology in our homes and offices. The installation process is straightforward, typically involving only basic wiring adjustments, making it an accessible upgrade for both residential and commercial environments.
Standalone DC Micro-Hubs: For more comprehensive DC power within a specific agile zone, standalone DC micro-hubs connected to the existing AC system via efficient AC-to-DC converters can be deployed.
Conclusion: A Sensible and Sustainable Evolution
In with the new, but NOT out with the old.
For building retrofits, the hybrid AC/DC model isn't just efficient; it's eminently practical. It respects existing investments, allows for targeted implementation, minimizes disruption, and offers a scalable pathway to a more energy-efficient and sustainable future.
Commercial real estate owners, architects, facility managers, and electrical design firms should embrace this pragmatic evolution, strategically integrating DC to enhance building performance without the unnecessary burden of completely abandoning their existing AC infrastructure.
