Time to Flip the Switch: Accelerating DC Building Adoption in California
A Roadmap for the CEC to Drive Innovation and Efficiency in the Built Environment
By Robert Kroon
Efficient DC Microgrids and DC-powered buildings use proven technologies to reduce upfront and operating costs., but there is still opposition. Follow the money.
The hum of alternating current (AC) has been the soundtrack to our lives for over a century. It powers our homes, businesses, and everything in between. But what if there was a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable way to power California's future?
The answer lies in direct current (DC) power, and it's time for the California Energy Commission (CEC) to take the lead in unlocking its vast potential.
While AC power has served us well, the rise of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, coupled with the increasing prevalence of DC-powered devices like LEDs and electric vehicles, presents a unique opportunity to rethink our energy infrastructure.
DC power offers significant advantages in these areas, minimizing energy loss, improving grid stability, and paving the way for a more decentralized and resilient energy system.
This blog post outlines the steps the CEC can take to accelerate the adoption of DC-powered buildings, building a brighter future for California.
1. Incorporate DC Power Systems into Building Codes and Standards:
Update Title 24: The CEC could include provisions for DC microgrids and DC power distribution systems in the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24). This would provide clear guidelines for design, installation, and safety, encouraging wider adoption.
Develop Testing and Certification Protocols: Establish standards for DC components and systems to ensure interoperability, safety, and performance. This would help build confidence in DC technology.
2. Offer Incentives and Funding:
August Berres’ C-Power battery pack can be charged with DC power. It provides portable power or it can be docked with no tools into your desk to power your laptop, dual monitors, sit-stand mechanisms, and induction phone chargers.
Financial Incentives: Provide grants, rebates, or tax credits for developers and building owners who incorporate DC power systems in new construction or retrofits.
Pilot Programs: Fund demonstration projects showcasing the benefits of DC power in various building types (residential, commercial, industrial). This can help gather data and refine best practices.
3. Address Regulatory Barriers:
Streamline Permitting: Simplify the permitting process for DC systems to reduce costs and delays for developers.
Interconnection Standards: Develop clear guidelines for connecting DC microgrids to the existing AC grid, ensuring safety and grid stability.
4. Education and Outreach:
Training Programs: Support the development of training programs for electricians, engineers, and contractors on the design, installation, and maintenance of DC power systems.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate consumers and building professionals about the benefits of DC power, including energy efficiency, resilience, and the potential for integrating renewable energy sources.
5. Collaboration and Partnerships:
Industry Collaboration: Work with manufacturers, utilities, and research institutions to develop and promote DC technologies.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with stakeholders, including building owners, developers, and environmental groups, to gather input and build consensus on DC power adoption.
By taking these steps, the CEC plays a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of DC-powered buildings in California, contributing to a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable energy future.
