Utilization of modular DC distribution converters for residential buildings considering load variations: A through comparison with distribution system B

Abstract

The present era witnessed substantial research and development in the field of DC distribution because of swift escalation in the installation of solar panels on roof top and employment of loads (DC in nature) in residential sector. In this regard, the notion of DC microgrids has recently received a lot of study attention. Efficiency is the parameter that once wiped DC out of the power system because of the tussle of currents between AC and DC (the Tesla-Edison regime). Efficiency can therefore be regarded as the decision-making parameter for adoption of AC/DC at distribution scale. The main aim of this study is to compare the efficiency/energy savings of a AC power distribution network to a DC distribution power network in modern homes. There are various variables that determine when HVDC is superior than HVAC in power transmission systems, and the same is true in the case of distribution A number of significant variables have an impact on the effectiveness of distribution networks, particularly DC distribution network. The critical analysis indicated the loopholes in the DC distribution system efficiency or AC vs DC distribution system research studies that had previously been given.Moreover, the current research presents a modular approach on the distribution converters for efficiency enhancement of DC distribution systems.To achieve the aforementioned goals, the AC and DC distribution system models are implemented using real data traces of a modern home. The loads are classified based of their types, like AC category loads, DC category loads, and independent category loads. The independent loads can run on either an AC power supply or a DC power supply. The voltage levels are chosen considering the defined standards. The power electronic converters (PECs) are installed wherever required to drive a load in the premise e.g., AC loads in DC system are require an inverters (DC AC converter) for their operation.The load variation with respect to time and PECs variation with respect to loading are also considered in the analysis powered through utility grid as well as standalone solar system. Mathematical model is devised using bottom-up approach i.e., from load to the grid. The mathematical model is supported with Matlab simulations. Moreover, efficiency enhancement of distribution converters and in-turn efficiency enhancement of DC distribution system is also presented by employing modular architecture. A detailed comparison is established in the end among AC, DC and modular architecture-based distribution system. The analysis concludes with the DC system having an efficiency of 89.39% averaged over 24 hours of the day,