DC Lighting Systems Evaluation

Abstract

The majority of building power distribution systems use alternating current (AC) sourced from a power grid. This significantly influences the design of direct current (DC) appliances including LED light sources and digital controls. With the proliferation of DC devices as standard design elements across many building technology categories, the interest in DC power distribution systems has increased significantly. In theory, DC power distribution can increase overall electrical system efficiency by eliminating losses associated with multiple AC-to-DC conversions. Therefore, centralized power supplies that support larger connected loads can be more efficient than distributed power supplies when powering the same total electrical load.¹ This increase in efficiency translates directly to reduced energy use and increased operational cost savings.