Plugging into the Future
Why AC Power is Losing Its Grip
An August Berres Editorial
By Robert Kroon
Sometimes, we cling to old technology just because we’re comfortable and don’t want to change.
For decades, the alternating current (AC) power system has reigned supreme in our offices, a legacy of the 20th century's centralized power grid. But as we move towards a future defined by distributed renewable energy and increasingly efficient devices, clinging to AC power for our workstations is not just outdated—it's a significant impediment to progress. It's time to declare the AC-powered office obsolete and embrace the direct current (DC) revolution.
Sometimes, we cling to old technology because we have an investment.
The traditional model of AC power generation at large power plants and its subsequent transmission across vast distances is becoming increasingly inefficient and unsustainable. The future of energy lies in localized generation, with solar panels on rooftops, wind turbines nearby, and microgrids distributing power within communities and even individual buildings. These sources inherently generate DC power.
Furthermore, the growing adoption of battery storage systems, crucial for smoothing out the intermittency of renewable sources, relies on storing energy in DC form.
Sometimes, we cling to old technology because we fear learning new technology.
Why then, do we continue to convert this DC power to AC, only to convert it back to DC at the device level for our computers, monitors, and other peripherals? This double conversion incurs significant energy losses, a needless waste in an era demanding maximum efficiency.
The answer, of course, is historical inertia. But with technological advancements, the rationale for sticking with AC is rapidly evaporating.
Consider the ubiquitous USB-C port. This small but powerful connector is capable of delivering significant amounts of DC power directly to devices. Laptops, monitors, and even some desktop computers can now be powered via USB-C, eliminating the need for bulky AC adapters and the associated conversion losses. This trend is only set to accelerate, with more and more office equipment designed to operate on DC power.
The implications of a DC-powered office extend far beyond mere efficiency gains. A building designed with a DC backbone would simplify power distribution, reduce wiring complexity, and lower installation costs. It would also facilitate seamless integration with on-site renewable energy generation and storage systems, creating a more resilient and sustainable energy ecosystem.
Imagine a building where excess solar power is stored in batteries and then used to directly power workstations, minimizing reliance on the grid and maximizing the use of clean energy.
Some may argue that transitioning to a DC-powered office requires significant infrastructure changes. While some adjustments will be necessary, the shift is already underway. Many modern buildings already incorporate DC power distribution for specific systems like lighting and HVAC. Expanding this to encompass workstations is a logical next step. Moreover, new construction offers the perfect opportunity to implement DC systems from the ground up, avoiding costly retrofits.
The continued specification of AC-powered workstations in new office designs represents a failure of imagination and a missed opportunity. It's akin to insisting on horse-drawn carriages in the age of automobiles. The future of office power is undeniably DC. By embracing this reality, we can unlock significant energy savings, enhance building resilience, and pave the way for a truly sustainable future.
The time to embrace the DC revolution is now.
